NEW ORLEANS — Taysom Hill delivered an impressive display, rushing for 138 yards and scoring three touchdowns, including a remarkable 75-yard run that helped lead the New Orleans Saints to a 35-14 victory against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Under the direction of interim coach Darren Rizzi, the Saints improved their record to 2-0 this season.
Among Hill’s touchdowns were runs of 10 and 33 yards, with the latter occurring in a crucial fourth-and-short situation. His performance undeniably overshadowed a couple of mistakes, which included one interception and a fumble. The 34-year-old quarterback solidified his place in Saints history, now ranking ninth with 44 total touchdowns, just four touchdowns short of exceeding Eric Martin’s franchise record.
In addition to his rushing prowess, Hill also managed to complete an 18-yard pass and made an impactful 42-yard kickoff return. Meanwhile, Derek Carr contributed to the Saints’ win by throwing for 248 yards and two touchdown passes. A highlight came from Marquez Valdes-Scantling, who turned a short crossing route into an impressive 71-yard catch and run for a score.
Jameis Winston had a strong showing for the Browns, racking up 395 yards and two touchdown passes in a homecoming performance, having spent the last four seasons in New Orleans. His scoring plays included an 89-yard touchdown that stemmed from a short pass to Jerry Jeudy during a scramble, as well as a 30-yard pass to Elijah Moore in the back of the end zone. Following that completion, he connected with tight end David Njoku for a 2-point conversion, allowing the Browns to tie the game at 14 in the third quarter. Jeudy emerged as the top receiver of the game, finishing with six catches for 142 yards.
The Saints’ ground game was effective overall, amassing a total of 214 rushing yards, where Alvin Kamara played a significant role with 67 yards on 16 carries. Browns’ kicker Dustin Hopkins struggled, missing field goal attempts from 51 and 32 yards in the second quarter, which allowed New Orleans to hold a 14-8 lead heading into halftime.
In terms of injuries, the Browns lost left tackle Dawand Jones, who received an air cast on his left leg after being carted off the field. He was filling in for Jedrick Wills Jr., who was scratched from the lineup, and was replaced by Germain Ifedi. Additionally, Saints center Erik McCoy, making his return from an eight-week absence due to a groin injury, suffered a setback after a lengthy touchdown run in the second quarter. Although he attempted to return briefly, he ultimately left the game permanently and was substituted by Shane Lemieux.
Looking forward, the Browns are set to host the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday night, while the Saints will enjoy a bye week before facing the Los Angeles Rams at home on December 1.