NFL Week 7 kicks off on Thursday Night Football as the AFC South-leading Jacksonville Jaguars face off with the New Orleans Saints in a battle of two teams with playoff aspirations. Thursday Night Football has traditionally produced some clunkers, but this one feels like it can turn the tide. And before the game even begins, we will get to see a performance of the national anthem. Who exactly is singing the anthem tonight?
From the current NFL standings to team depth charts to coverage of every game in the 18-week NFL schedule, we have all the news from around the league to keep you up to speed!
Grammy-Nominated Singer, Poet, Songwriter, and Author Takes Center Stage
Tarriona “Tank” Ball kicks off tonight’s Jaguars/Saints action by singing the national anthem. Ball grew up in New Orleans and believes she brings the Bayou flare no matter where she performs.
The multi-talented artist has performed across the globe. Ball’s musical talents allow her to connect with the viewing/listening audience.
Tank is the lead singer of a New Orleans-inspired band, Tank and the Bangas. The group met at an open mic show called the Liberation. They rose to fame in 2019, receiving a 2020 Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.
Tank and the Bangas have released three studio albums — Thinktank, Green Balloon, and Red Balloon.
Those who have heard Ball sing compare her lyrical talents to those of Nicki Minaj. However, Ball grew up practicing her craft in church.
As an undeniable talent, Ball has been described as “sincere and eclectic.” The band’s style cannot be summed up in one word but rather a harmonious mixture of funk, soul, hip-hop, rock, and spoken word.
Jaguars vs. Saints Thursday Night Football Preview
The Jaguars have found their way overseas and back, as Jacksonville played in two contests over the pond. They have found an offensive rhythm, riding the multi-talented RB Travis Etienne Jr., who has become the catalyst of the Jaguars’ offense. Jacksonville may need him to carry the load again in this one.
Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence enters this contest banged up with a knee injury. The franchise signal-caller plans to test his knee in pregame warmups, but all signs point to the former Clemson superstar playing in this one.
MORE: Who Are the Jaguars-Saints Announcers Tonight?
On the other sideline, QB Derek Carr hasn’t been himself as of late. Many around the NFL point to an injury Carr suffered weeks ago, and the 2023 free agent acquisition may still be ailing. The Saints can ride RB Alvin Kamara, a weapon as a runner and receiver out of the backfield.
You get the feeling we haven’t seen the best out of either team heading into this contest. Fireworks may await the national viewing audience on Thursday Night Football.
