The New Orleans Saints played an exciting game in Week 5 against the Seattle Seahawks as the teams engaged in the highest-scoring matchup of the week. There were seven lead changes in the game, including two in the fourth quarter. Ultimately, it was the Saints that pulled out the win, 39-32.
There were numerous players on the Saints that were worthy of a game ball, but that award likely went to the hybrid offensive player, Taysom Hill. Hill was converted to tight end full-time this offseason but he has still been deployed in formations as a quarterback that can do a little bit of everything.
Through five games he has been used mostly on rushing attempts as he has as many passing attempts as receptions. However, no matter what role the Saints deploy him in, Hill always produces.
Against the Seahawks, he once again came up huge. On an afternoon that the Saints rumbled to 235 yards on the ground, Hill produced 112 yards on nine carries, adding three touchdowns. He also completed his one pass for a 22-yard touchdown, showcasing his wide range of abilities.
In the process, Hill accomplished a very rare feat. This is the first time since 1977 when Archie Manning was the Saints’ starting quarterback, that a Saints played had three rushing touchdowns and one passing touchdown in the same game.
This kind of hybrid role is perfect for the versatile Hill. Teams don’t know what to expect when he comes on the field as he is strong enough to run defenders over with the ball in his hands or athletic enough to just run away from them as he did on his 60-yard scamper against the Seahawks. He is also capable of throwing the ball, keeping defenses on their toes whenever he checks into the game.
His role in the offense has expanded the last two weeks with Andy Dalton being called upon to start in place of the injured Jameis Winston. Keeping Hill involved even when Winston is healthy enough to play is something that Dennis Allen and the coaching staff need to consider as he just produces and gets the job done when his number is called.
