Dennis Allen’s New Orleans Saints defense has been one of the best in the league in certain aspects, but defending the run hasn’t been a strength. Coming into their Week 13 matchup against the Detroit Lions, the Saints ranked 22nd in Run Defense DVOA, and they’ve been too vulnerable to second-level yards from opposing running backs.
The Lions were all over this on their first and second offensive drives — especially the first, which featured this 36-yard run by rookie Jahmyr Gibbs, which was blocked up about as well as you’d like.
Peanut Butter & Jelly for 6⃣!#DETvsNO 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/MCWaS07vC6
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 3, 2023
That drive ended with a David Montgomery two-yard touchdown run. The Saints didn’t have the ball very long, as Derek Carr threw this interception to rookie defensive back Brian Branch off a mishandled pass attempt.
.@BrianBB_1 at it again!#DETvsNO 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/HBPktSWiqq
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 3, 2023
On Detroit’s subsequent drive, Jared Goff threw this 13-yard touchdown to rookie tight end Sam LaPorta.
Sammy's scoring touchdowns‼️#DETvsNO 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/nKWy4Esd2J
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 3, 2023
The 8-3 Lions have benefitted all season long from their rookie class, and never more so than at the start of this game with a 21-0 lead halfway through the first quarter.
