New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara and tight end Jared Cook returned to action Sunday, Nov. 10 vs. the Atlanta Falcons after missing the previous two contests due to injury. Kamara and Cook contributed on the Saints opening drive, which resulted in a 29-yard field goal by kicker Wil Lutz, the first score on an opening possession for New Orleans this season. Lutz also made 47-yarder as time expired in the first half.
However, the Falcons found success on the ground with running back Devonta Freeman. He carried the ball 10 times for 38 yards with a long of 12 yards. Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan completed 12-of-18 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown, including a 54-yard hookup with wideout Julio Jones as the Falcons took at 13-6 halftime lead at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
Quarterback Drew Brees completed 16-of-18 passes for 135 yards. He connected with wideout Michael Thomas five times for 61 yards (Taysom Hill completed a 17-yard pass to Thomas) making the Ohio State product the fastest player to record 400 career receptions (56 games), passing Browns wideout Odell Beckham Jr. (61 games).
Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore and offensive tackle Andrus Peat left the game in the first half with injuries. Penalties were an issue for the Saints as they were flagged seven times for 52 yards.
The Saints (7-1) are seeking their seventh consecutive win.
For complete first half stats click here
