Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
John Sigler

Watch: Adam Trautman scores the first opening-drive TD of Saints’ 2021 season

We’ll say they saved the best for last. The New Orleans Saints ended their opening possession with a touchdown for the first time this season, with quarterback Taysom Hill sending a high-arcing pass to tight end Adam Trautman from 18 yards out against the Atlanta Falcons. It was the first touchdown the Saints have scored on their opening drive in 2021; over the first 16 games, only three opening drives ended with points, all field goals.

And it was a great play from all involved. Trautman turned his head at the right time to spot the ball and adjust his route. Hill put enough air under it to make sure his pass fell where only his receiver had a chance for it. And their teammates around them sold the play-action well enough for the Falcons defense to buy into the run fake, creating enough time for New Orleans to get points on the scoreboard first.

This is exactly what the Saints need to do if they’re going to reach the playoffs. Let’s hope more big linkups between Hill and his supporting cast are on the way to put this one away quickly.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.