Clutch performances in close games was the theme during Week 12 of the NFL season.
For New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram, he was the catalyst behind the one match-up that didn’t turn out as many had expected. The former Alabama standout and first-round pick kept New Orleans’ (5-6) slim playoff hopes alive with a prime time outing on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams.
Despite Los Angeles ranking ninth in the league in total defense (339.8 ypg), Ingram still totaled 146 yards rushing and a touchdown on 14 carries. While his feet registered a 10-yard score, Ingram’s hand would come into play during the second half. He was on the receiving end for one of four touchdown passes from quarterback Drew Brees. Brees connected with Ingram on a 21-yard score in the third quarter.
He earned his second 100-yard game of the year while becoming the first Saints’ back since Reggie Bush (2006) to win NFL’s Offensive Player of the Week. After its team handled the Rams, 49-21, fans at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome will be excited to watch New Orleans battle Detroit next week.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
