The New Orleans Saints gave the Los Angeles Rams their first loss of the season this past Sunday in America’s game of the week with a score of 45-35. The Saints have now won seven games in a row putting them at the top of the of their division, as they currently have the longest winning streak in the NFL.
This game was highly anticipated and was the first meeting of two teams who both average 33 points or more this late in the season. The Saints had the lead at halftime of 35-17 but were unable to hold onto it when the Rams tied the game 35-35 at the beginning of the fourth quarter.
When the Saints were unable to score a touchdown on their following possession they opted for a 54-yard field goal from kicker Wil Lutz, who has made 14 consecutive field goals in a row, making the score 38-35.
With the Rams unable to convert on downs and six minutes left in the fourth quarter, the Saints got the ball back. On third-and-7 Drew Brees pass to Michael Thomas is completed with Thomas scoring a 72-yard touchdown.
After the extra point was kicked this put the Saints on top with 45-35. The Rams weren’t able to score again which sent them home with their first loss of the season.
Both offenses had high scoring games. Rams quarterback Jared Goff threw for 391 yards with three touchdowns, with one touchdown going to the NFL’s best running back Todd Gurley.
However, the Saints offense was able to outscore the Rams with Brees throwing for 346 yards and four touchdowns. Three of the four touchdowns from the Saints were to running back Alvin Kamara who rushed for 116 yards.
Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas had a career high day with 12 receptions, 211 yards and one touchdown. Together these four players alone had over 1,000 yards of offense.
The Saints offensive line also contributed to this win by allowing zero sacks and only four quarterback hits all night. The Saints will take a week off with next week being their bye week.
With the Saints and the Rams both leading not only their divisions but also the NFC, it has been speculated that these two teams could potentially meet in the NFC championship game.
Lindsey Elam
Reporter