Mark Ingram May Be The Key To New Orleans Saints’ NFC South Run
Derick E. Hingle — USA TODAY Sports
It was as if Mark Ingram hadn’t left the building.
The New Orleans Saints running back had lost valuable playing time to Khiry Robinson and Pierre Thomas, but got his second chance in one of those dramatic twists of fate — and delivered. With Robinson and Thomas sidelined due to injury, Ingram stepped in and put up a 172-yard outburst that helped the Saints polish off the Green Bay Packers 44-23 in the nationally-televised Sunday night game.
Ingram’s return to active duty helped galvanize a Saints lineup that had suffered in recent weeks. Last week, the Saints lost to the Detroit Lions on a last-second touchdown drive. The Saints have not had the best of luck this season, and their record shows. However, fate may have smiled on the Saints in more ways than one. An explosive offense has helped the Saints stay relevant in the NFC South title picture.
Even though the Saints are only 3-4 overall, the division-leading Carolina Panthers are only 3-4-1, and the big matchup is coming up this week. With one win on Thursday, the Saints can take first place in the division and motor on from there.
Is Ingram the long-term answer at the position? Maybe it is best the Saints use multiple running backs, as Ingram could be a solid presence along with Thomas and Robinson. However, there just something about Ingram that said he should have more of a presence in the lineup. The coaching staff said Ingram could see 18-22 touches prior to Sunday night’s game.
The coaching staff lied. He got 24 touches, and that added up to a fantastic night.
Ingram needs to carry more of the load. If he doesn’t, the Saints could be subject to more shaky games like they have had previously. The Saints can close the first half of their schedule on a high note and take over first on Thursday. A healthy and happy Ingram may be the first step toward making that happen.
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