Saints Now First in NFC South

Thursday night the Saints clinched the first place position after beating the Carolina Panthers. The Saints were able to win big on the road against the Panthers, proving their strength as a team and winning 28-10. The beginning of the game was extremely sloppy, but the Saints finally snapped their seven game losing streak when they play on the road.

Brees threw for 297 yards, had one touchdown and ran for another touchdown. He went 24 for 34. Brees’ 8.74 yards per passing attempt was the best that he has been able to do on the road since October 2012.

Jimmy Graham had seven catches for 85 yards and one touchdown. The Saints defense has been able to hold their opponents to less than 30 points following their bye week in week 6.

The offensive line was able to hold off the Panthers defense to give running back Mark Ingram the ability to get first down after first down, ultimately protecting the Saints chance to win the game. Ingram is playing with much more confidence and the Saints have definitely adapted their play scheme to fit his strengths. Ingram had 100 yards against the Panthers.

The Panthers started their season on a good note with two straight wins but then went to win just one game in the past seven. The Panthers are the defending NFC South champions but haven’t been able to repeat last season’s success. Even with the Saints two turnovers, Carolina could not capitalize on those mistakes.