New Orleans Saints
Last game: Won 20-17 vs. Carolina Panthers (7-7)
Offensive standout: QB Tyler Shough
A standout for the second week in a row, Shough was excellent in this win against Carolina. He was efficient as a passer, connecting on 24 of his 32 pass attempts for 272 yards and a touchdown. Shough was also involved in the critical late-hit penalty in the final seconds of the game that set up the Saints’ go-ahead field goal.
Defensive standout: OLB Chase Young
Young finished tied for the team lead with six tackles, including four solo stops. He was also a pest for the Panthers’ pass blockers and finished with four quarterback pressures and a sack.
Needs improvement: Running back production
Saints running backs have produced just 227 yards on the ground since Week 12, which ranks 30th among the league’s 32 teams. Shough has been the Saints’ leading rusher twice during that four-game span.
Telling quote: “Obviously, we are not going to be able to go to the playoffs this year, but we are building something really special and doing it the right way. Every single guy in that locker room, the way they prepare and compete and stay together through every experience – the last two weeks have been an awesome example of these guys.” – Saints head coach Kellen Moore
Up next: The Saints host the New York Jets (3-11) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.