The New Orleans Saints had their way with the Atlanta Falcons defensive line for most of the game. New Orleans had ran for over 130 yards on their first 25 carries, but when it mattered most, the Saints were unable to get five yards on three Alvin Kamara runs in the red zone.
On fourth down, the Falcons defense sent an all-out blitz, forcing Derek Carr to loft a ball to speed demon Rashid Shaheed. Instead of having the signature play in the back of the end zone, cornerback Dee Alford came in and punched the ball free. Giving the Falcons a chance to close out this game late in the fourth quarter.
#Falcons Dee Alford with play of the game. Pass was high. His hit knocked it. Shaheed was about to pull it in. Don't think would have gotten the second foot down.
— D. Orlando Ledbetter (@DOrlandoAJC) September 29, 2024
Alford has had a rough day thus far, having Carr pick on him throughout the day with their primary receiver Chris Olave out of the slot. But when it matters most, Alford and this Atlanta defense continue to make the plays necessary to win.
Now, it's up to the offense to seal this game away and retake the lead in one of the league's most passionate rivalries.
