Saints' Taysom Hill throws a wrench into analytics with dominant performance in win vs. Browns
The New Orleans Saints got an otherworldly performance from Taysom Hill in their 35-14 win over the Cleveland Browns in Week 11. Hill is a utility knife that defenses struggle to stop when he gets going. Taysom Time Darren Rizzi discussed Taysom's increased usage for Week 11. There were clear plans to get him the […]
The New Orleans Saints got an otherworldly performance from Taysom Hill in their 35-14 win over the Cleveland Browns in Week 11. Hill is a utility knife that defenses struggle to stop when he gets going.
Taysom Time
Darren Rizzi discussed Taysom's increased usage for Week 11. There were clear plans to get him the football more often, starting from the first drive of the game for Klint Kubiak's unit.
"Yes. When he touches the ball, it affects the game tremendously. And sometimes he doesn't even have to touch the ball, he can just affect the game by being on the field."
"We looked at tape and collectively felt that we gotta get this guy the ball – get him more involved. If you look at our wins this season, Taysom's numbers are pretty good."
“Kudos to Taysom for responding. No surprise. That’s Taysom. … I know he was pissed at halftime. … He’s the poster child for resiliency. I’m certainly happy as heck we have that guy on our team.”
— Rizzi
The Saints coach also mentioned that New Orleans is "happy as heck" to have Hill on their team. He truly appreciates his grit and effort.
Hill's unique 'Wildcat' role in the backfield took analytics to a new level against the Browns. His dominance was unlike anything documented in the NFL since 2016. You just do not see players like him, basically ever.
Rizzi is completely correct when it comes to Taysom's involvement, too. In Week 1, he totaled 35 yards on five carries. Three of those carries went for first downs. The numbers aren't mind-boggling, but the impact was clear.
Meanwhile, one of New Orleans' worst offensive games was in Week 8 against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Hill made a couple of plays early, but his usage was limited with backup QB Spencer Rattler starting. Taysom finished with just four carries and two catches. New Orleans scored just eight points.
Not to mention, Hill missed a chunk of time due to rib injuries.
Without him, the offense's running game took a notable hit. Their rushing attack was solely a deployment of Alvin Kamara behind a beat-up offensive line. The star running back had no other major threat to balance out the run game for the Saints, and it was clear to the staff.
Over the years, Taysom has been ridiculed or overlooked due to his unique role. This season, Kubiak's multiple ways to get him the ball has taken his impact to another level.
