Suspense builds for Saints star ahead of pivotal NFC South matchup

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated 1/5/24

The New Orleans Saints must beat a division rival in Week 18. In order to have any chance at the playoffs, the black and gold has to defeat the Atlanta Falcons to complete their regular season.

They could be without one of their best players for the NFC South showdown, too. Alvin Kamara left their Week 17 with a sprained ankle. He has not practiced this week.

Dennis Allen says that Kamara is officially a game-time decision for the Saints.

Allen mentions that Kamara is so valuable to the team that the cannot rush a decision. They would not want to rule him out on Friday, then see that he has made legitimate improvement by Sunday.

Alvin Kamara will be a game time decision. Dennis Allen said he’s so valuable to the team that they’ll go all the way up to the game to decide
— Katherine Terrell (@Kat_Terrell) January 5, 2024

New Orleans really does need Kamara on the field. Jamaal Williams has been inconsistent in pass protection and on the ground. Taysom Hill's role has shifted a bit to more of a receiving-heavy one since he sustained a couple of injuries.

That being said, if Kamara misses Week 18, Hill will need increased carries. He's proven in the past that he can dominate against a Falcons defense.

The last time the Saints faced the Falcons, Taysom Hill did it all on Thanksgiving!

Blocked punt
Receiving TD
Rushing TD#ATLvsNO | Sunday | Noon CT on FOX pic.twitter.com/Q5CGhSFht4
— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) November 18, 2020