The New Orleans Saints lost five key players to injury but they played the Falcons to a 10-10 halftime tie in Atlanta on Thursday night.
Sensational rookie running back Alvin Kamara left during the team's first possession to be evaluated for a concussion while linebacker A.J. Klein left shortly after with a groin injury. Rookie defensive end Trey Hendrickson left the game on the Falcons' lone touchdown drive and guard Senio Kelemete had to leave on the next possession. Safety Kenny Vaccaro also left the game late in the second quarter.
Atlanta (7-5) scored on a 28-yard Matt Bryant field goal and a 1-yard run by Devonta Freeman.
The Saints (9-3) scored on their opening drive on a 34-yard Wil Lutz field goal and a 26-yard strike from quarterback Drew Brees to receiver Tommylee Lewis in the second quarter. It was Lewis' first TD reception in the NFL.
Rookie Marshson Lattimore intercepted Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan with four seconds left to end an Atlanta scoring drive. New Orleans had a chance at a field goal but a penalty wiped out the attempt and the half ended.
New Orleans Saints key stats
Drew Brees, 14 of 17 for 154 yards with one TD
Mark Ingram II, eight carries for 33 yards
Michael Thomas, five catches for 58 yards
Atlanta Falcons key stats
Matt Ryan, 9 of 16 for 132 yards with one interception
Devonta Freeman, 11 carries for 30 yards with one TD
Julio Jones, three catches for 65 yards
