There has been a lot said about how the game against the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons went down in the waning moments. With the game decided, as New Orleans held a 41-17 lead, head coach Dennis Allen sent his team out on the field to take a knee and run out the clock. But, the players had a plan of their own.
Once on the field, led by backup quarterback Jameis Winston, an audible was called. Instead of kneeling, Winston handed the ball off to running back Jamaal Williams so that he could get his first touchdown of the season. He plunged into the endzone for a one-yard score.
After the final whistle, when the head coaches normally shake hands, Falcons’ head coach Arthur Smith was furious. He was seen yelling at Allen and no handshake occurred. After the game, Allen understood the frustrations Smith had and said it was wrong of what happened.
There have been some strong opinions shared in the media about what occurred as well. Some people believe Allen should be fired as the players don’t respect him enough to follow play calls. Others don’t believe Winston is cut out to be a winning quarterback in this league for deciding to do what he did.
NFL News & Rumors: Jimmy Graham, Jameis Winston, New Orleans Saints Updates
While the outside noise is mostly negative, inside the Saints locker room, Winston is revered. Winston emhpasized that it was a group decision on the field, not that he went rogue and did it on his own.
While the criticism rolled in, one Saints player stood up for Winston without hesitation. Veteran tight end Jimmy Graham took to social media to stick up for his quarterback, ending his post with a message everyone in the organzation and fan base can agree with.
“Get off @Jaboowins back. This man is the best teammate I’ve ever had. Loves this city, this game and embodies everything you can ask for in a leader. Was a rare situation and we all take responsibility. Nobody thought it would get blown out of proportion. Also f*ck the falcons,” Graham wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
The rivalry between the Saints and Falcons runs deep, as you can see from Graham’s message. Another layer has been added by the decision Winston made, but this could all blow over by next season as Atlanta will be led by a new head coach.Smith was fired later that night, the first casualty of Black Monday in the NFL.
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