It feels like forever since the Saints have been relevant

There is no difference in going 3-13 and 9-8 if the end result is the same. If the Saints don’t win the division, then it’s a failure. A failure that is magnified with a historically easy schedule.

There are no participation trophies.
I wholly disagree. 9-8 and fighting for a playoff spot and having hope is a much more enjoyable season than being 0-6 with no shot and giving up on the season midway thru.