The NFC South rival New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons have met for 108 different matchups, including contests that precede the division entirely which did not come to be until the 2002 expansion. But with all of that history between the two teams, there has been something unique about the most recent 12: quarterback Taysom Hill.
It always feels like calling Hill a "quarterback" sells his skills set short. Especially considering the stat line he has put up against the Falcons in his time. WWL radio's Jeff Nowak put collected the eclectic player's production which includes:
- 4 passing touchdowns, 4 rushing touchdowns and a receiving touchdown
- Completing 76% of his passes (57/75)
- 7.2 yards per carry as a rusher
- 1 blocked punt
- 1 tackle
Hill has done it all against the Falcons, and the Saints should make sure he is prepared to do it all over again this weekend. Especially considering they will be without star wideout Michael Thomas.
Both Atlanta (4-6) and New Orleans (5-5) are fighting to take control of the NFL's weakest division. Whichever team wins will take their first most-meaningful steps towards a playoff spot. This is a massively important game for both teams and the Saints in particular who are looking to end their two-year postseason drought.
The New Orleans offense has left a lot to be desired even with the improvements that can be mapped over the last five or so games. But slow starts, lack of creativity and an inconsistent attack in both the air and ground games have also cost them dearly. Hill has proven to be the remedy for the team's struggles not only this season, but going back to the 2022 year as well.
When Hill is a part of the gameplan, good things tend to happen for the Saints. In the 13 games in which Hill has at least 10 touches (combined carries and catches), the Saints are 12-1.
Where he may be able to have the biggest impact will be in the run game. New Orleans averages just 3.6 yards per carry so far this season. Hill himself averages 5.2 with 261 rushing yards on 50 attempts. He also leads the team with 3 touchdown runs.
New Orleans has been often criticized for getting away from what works. That cannot be the case when it comes to a very important game off the bye week. Whether as a passer, receiver or runner, the multi-faceted weapon should be a big part of the gameplan in Atlanta. Simply put: good things happen when Hill gets the ball.
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