2 Ups and 2 Downs From Yesterday’s Win Against the Chicago Bears

That was a lot closer than it should have been. In what was another roller-coaster of a game with plenty of ups and downs along the way, here are a couple that stood out.

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Up: Alvin Kamara

This kid is going to be something special in the NFL. He’s already showing that he’s an exceptional pass-catching back, making a great adjustment on a deep throw with the ball in midair. He also added a touchdown on the ground, finishing the day with 76 total yards and that rushing TD. He’s shown his great hands and route-running, and he’s an underrated rusher between the tackles. Saints fans, you might have found a future premier RB to build around.

Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images

Down: Ball security

It’s nothing against Mark Ingram, but those two fumbles just can’t happen. I understand that Mark was doing his best to protect the ball and the Bears just made great plays on his hands, but Mark knows the game situation. He understands that he can help put the game away for the Saints if he just holds onto the ball for dear life. He fumbled once, but Sean Payton gave him another shot on the next drive. After the second fumble, it was Kamara who came in to try to run out the clock. I don’t expect Mark to lose any touches next week because of this, but if it becomes a habit, it wouldn’t be a shock to see Kamara get the bulk of the carries for a game or two.

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Up: Thomas Morstead

Morstead just does not get the attention he deserves as his contribution to the Saints week in and week out goes unappreciated by most fans. In a game where the Saints again struggled on offense at times, it was the leg of Thomas Morstead that helped flip the field and keep the Saints in the game. His incredible punting skills were showcased on a booming punt that hit at the Bears 1-yard line and bounced back for the Saints to down within the 5.

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Down: Willie Snead

Who is Willie Snead? Does he play for the Saints? Is he even a real person? I heard he was active, but that could have just been #FakeNews.