Is Derek Carr playing today? Exploring Saints QB's status for Week 9 vs. Panthers

The New Orleans Saints started rookie Spencer Rattler as QB1 in Derek Carr's place for the last three games since the veteran quarterback was sidelined due to an oblique injury.

Carr participated in three limited practice sessions this week as the Saints got ready for their Week 9 game against the Carolina Panthers.

Without Derek Carr, the Saints had trouble on the offensive side, scoring 10 points or less in each of their last two outings. If the former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback can return to the starting lineup on Sunday, it will be a huge boost for the squad.

Will Derek Carr play against the Panthers on Sunday?

The New Orleans Saints' final injury report on Friday did not include Derek Carr. The 33-year-old quarterback will start on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, despite not being able to participate in any full practices during the week.

Head coach Dennis Allen said on Wednesday:

"I expect Derek to be ready to go. In that case, Jake (Haener) will be the backup.”

This was the first time Derek Carr missed up to three games due to an injury since he broke his ankle with the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2017 season

In the last three games without Carr, the Saints' attack only managed three touchdowns. The return of the former second-round draft pick is anticipated to help the offense excel.

The Saints looked their best in the season opener, handily defeating the Panthers 47-10 at Caesars Superdome with Carr at quarterback.

Carr threw for three touchdowns and completed 19 of 23 throws for 200 yards. In Week 9, he will try to take advantage of the Panthers' porous defense, which has given up 17 touchdown passes, which ranks joint bottom for the most in the league.

Carr passed for 989 yards, eight touchdowns and four picks in five appearances this season before getting hurt. He also had a rushing touchdown and 22 yards from eight rushes.

How to watch New Orleans Saints vs. Carolina Panthers on Sunday?

The New Orleans Saints, who have lost six straight games, will take on the Carolina Panthers in a pivotal Week 9 Sunday afternoon game.

While the Saints have only won twice this season, the Panthers are dealing with their own set of issues heading into this game. Carolina must be keen to turn things around at home against a divisional rival after going five games without a win and only winning once this season.

All the information you need to watch the game is provided below:

Date and Time: Sunday, Nov. 3, at 1 p.m. EST

Location: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina

TV: CBS

Announcers: Tom McCarthy (play-by-play), Jay Feely (color analyst), Amanda Balionis (sideline reporter)

Live streaming: FuboTV, Paramount+