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

By John Sigler

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.

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