Yardbarker

Eric Smithling

Eric Smithling is a writer based in New Orleans, LA, whose byline also appears on Athlon Sports. He has been with Yardbarker since September 2022, primarily covering the NFL and college football, but also the NBA, WNBA, men’s and women’s college basketball, NHL, tennis and golf. He holds a film studies degree from the University of New Orleans. You can find him on Twitter/X and Threads at @ericsmithling and at Bluesky at @ericsmithling.bsky.social.

EXPERTISE:

NFL, College Football, NBA, Men's and Women's College Basketball, NHL

Twitter/X: @ericsmithling
Muck Rack: eric-smithling
September 22, 2022  |  New Orleans Saints

Why Michael Thomas could improve on his strong start to 2022 season

While the offense for the New Orleans Saints has yet to find a rhythm through two games, it has a pulse because of Michael Thomas, who is flashing his old All-Pro form. Is there reason to believe he could improve on his strong start?

September 21, 2022  |  New Orleans Saints

Jameis Winston still has faith in Chris Olave: 'Rookie with a veteran mindset'

Winston's passer rating when targeting Olave is 49.2, or 30 points below average.

September 21, 2022  |  New Orleans Saints

Sean Payton would return to coaching 'if the right situation presented itself'

While at first talking about how much he enjoys his current job as a FOX NFL analyst, Payton also admitted he would consider a return "if the right situation presented itself."

September 21, 2022  |  New Orleans Saints

Saints struggle mightily when Alvin Kamara is out of the lineup

The team has struggled to find the win column when their star RB is unavailable.