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The New Orleans Saints got back on the winning trail with a shutout 24-0 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. The Saints are now 3-5 and firmly in the mix in the chaotic NFC South. Here are three takeaways from this impressive win. 

The Pass Rush finds a Pulse

The lifeless New Orleans Saints pass rush finally found life on Sunday. New Orleans notched four sacks and nine quarterback hits. It was a solid display, with Payton Turner stealing the headlines with two sacks. Turner averaged 3.5 yards of separation from the quarterback. The NFL average is 4.5 yards. Turner enjoyed the best game of his young career. He energized a pass rush that needed a spark. 

Alvin Kamara Gets Loose

Alvin Kamara increased any potential trade capital with a dominant performance against the Raiders’ defense. Kamara had 62 rushing yards with one touchdown and 96 receiving yards with two touchdowns. Kamara was at his poetry-in-motion best as he evaded tackles and accelerated all over the field. Kamara hit 20 miles per hour on his touchdown run. It was a virtuoso performance. If that is his last game in the Superdome, it was a hell of a farewell. 

The South is Still Up for Grabs

With the NFC South in disarray, the win keeps New Orleans firmly in the fight. The Saints are 1-2 in the division, but found a formula for success in this game. Can the Saints replicate this performance? The 2022 record suggests not, but this experienced squad has won many games over the last four years. If they can get healthy and stay consistent, they will have a shot at the division crown.