2016 New Orleans Saints Mid-Season Grades – Offense
By Bob Rose
Nov 6, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram (22) carries the ball to score a 75-yard touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Levi
RUNNING BACKS
In the first 4 weeks of the season, the Saints running game was virtually non-existent — but the biggest story here during the season’s first half was the benching of running back Mark Ingram early in the victory over the Seahawks two weeks ago; following 2 key fumbles in back-to-back games.
Following Ingram’s benching, Tim Hightower stepped up for his first significant action of the year to run for 102 yards against a tough Seattle defense.
Ingram responded to his benching by having one of the best games of his career against the 49ers, rushing for 158 yards and steamrolling every defender in sight.
Rookie Daniel Lasco, currently injured, has shown flashes during spot duty and Travaris Cadet is a capable reciever out of the backfield.
Fullback John Kuhn, a fan favorite and hard-nosed throwback type of player is dangerous around the goal line and has underrated versatility.
All five players are underrated pass blockers as well, a necessity for this offense. The ability of the Saints to run the ball with consistency down the stretch is a key for a balanced attack.
This is an underrated group that compliments the offense well. Despite some concerns about the offensive line, the entire running game seems to be progressing very nicely after a very slow start.