Saints could bench Andy Dalton for Jameis Winston vs. Rams

New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen said Monday he could bench quarterback Andy Dalton in favor of Jameis Winston for this Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Rams. 

"I think we've gotta look at everything," Allen told reporters Monday coming off Sunday's 20-10 loss at the Pittsburgh Steelers that dropped the Saints to 3-7 on the season, per Katherine Terrell of ESPN. "Yeah, I think we've gotta look at everything. And that will be a process we go through today and tomorrow as we get ready for the Rams."

Winston hasn't played since Week 3 and was initially sidelined due to back and ankle injuries, but the Saints have since dropped five of seven contests. Back in Week 9, New Orleans fell to the Baltimore Ravens 27-13.

"And we haven't been doing as well the last couple weeks," Allen added during his comments. "So, I think we've gotta evaluate that. I think that's something that we need to look at."

According to ESPN stats, Dalton began Monday 17th among eligible quarterbacks with an 89.6 passer rating, 23rd with a 45.8 total QBR, and tied for 16th with a 65.0% completion percentage on the campaign. In seven games, the 35-year-old has thrown for 1,559 yards with 11 touchdowns and seven interceptions. 

It is worth noting that Allen admitted Monday Winston may not "be 100% healthy" again until after the season. The 28-year-old first experienced a foot issue in August and seemingly has been up against it since. 

Allen said Monday the Saints will "do what we feel like gives our team the best chance to win" regarding any lineup decisions. 

Either Dalton or Winston will receive the opportunity to show he gives New Orleans just that in the Week 11 home matchup against a 3-6 Rams side that has lost three straight and five of six.