Saints Dominate Browns 35-14: Key Performances and Stats from New Orleans’ Fourth Win of the 2024 Season

In a commanding 35-14 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, the New Orleans Saints notched their fourth win of the 2024 season, improving their record to 4-7. This triumph, fueled by standout performances across the board, sets the stage for a Week 12 bye before they return to action on December 1 to host the Los Angeles Rams at the Caesars Superdome. Kickoff for that game is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. CT, and it will be regionally televised on FOX (locally on WVUE FOX 8).

Saints vs. Browns: Key Highlights and Statistical Milestones

1. New Orleans Continues Dominance Over Cleveland
With the win, the Saints improved their all-time regular season record against the Cleveland Browns to 7-13 and evened the series at 4-4 at the Caesars Superdome. Dating back to their September 18, 2018, 20-18 victory, New Orleans now holds a three-game winning streak against the Browns, matching their previous three-game streak from 1984-1990.

2. Darren Rizzi’s Perfect Coaching Start
Interim Head Coach Darren Rizzi, stepping in for Dennis Allen, remains undefeated as a head coach with a 2-0 record. He joins the ranks of Sean Payton (2006) as the only two Saints head coaches to win their first two games.

3. Saints Set Season-High in Total Yardage and Rushing
New Orleans showcased a balanced offensive attack, racking up a season-high 473 total net yards, including a dominant 214 rushing yards—another season-high. The Saints outrushed the Browns by a staggering 214-66 margin, establishing control on the ground throughout the contest.

4. Derek Carr Leads the Way
Quarterback Derek Carr was sharp in his performance, completing 21 of 27 passes for 248 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions, posting a 129.6 passer rating. Carr’s two touchdown passes—one to Marquez Valdes-Scantling (71 yards) and another to Juwan Johnson (1 yard)—helped extend the Saints’ lead. With the victory, Carr improved to 5-1 as a starter against the Browns and moved up to tie for 22nd place on the NFL’s all-time touchdown passing list with 255 career touchdowns, surpassing Joe Flacco and Hall of Famer Dan Fouts.

5. Taysom Hill’s Historic Performance
Taysom Hill delivered one of the most remarkable performances of the season, setting a career-high 230 all-purpose yards. Hill rushed for a career-high 138 yards on seven carries (19.7 yards per carry) and scored three rushing touchdowns. He also made eight receptions for 50 yards and completed one pass for 18 yards. Hill’s three touchdowns brought his career total to 44, surpassing Pierre Thomas on the Saints’ all-time list. Notably, Hill became the first player since 1971 to record three rushing touchdowns, 50 receiving yards, and one pass completion in a game.

6. Alvin Kamara Continues to Impress
Running back Alvin Kamara remained a key contributor, rushing for 67 yards on 16 carries and adding 22 yards on four receptions. With 1,225 yards from scrimmage on the season, Kamara surpassed his 2023 total of 1,160 yards. His career rushing total now stands at 6,611 yards, moving him into the top 80 in NFL history. Kamara also surpassed 4,600 career receiving yards, moving into 15th place on the NFL’s all-time running back list.

7. Strong Defensive Effort by the Saints
The Saints’ defense was relentless, with linebacker Demario Davis leading the charge with a season-high 13 tackles, including a tackle for loss and two pass breakups. Davis surpassed 750 career tackles as a Saint, moving into a tie for 42nd place on the franchise’s all-time games played list. Defensive tackle Bryan Bresee continued his strong 2024 campaign, notching 1.5 sacks to bring his season total to 5.5, a career-high. The defensive line, including Bresee, Carl Granderson, and Chase Young, combined for three sacks against Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson.

8. Contributions from Special Teams
The Saints’ special teams unit also had a strong showing. Punter Matthew Hayball downed three of his punts inside the 20-yard line, while kicker Blake Grupe continued his perfect season, converting all five extra-point attempts to increase his team-leading point total to 75. Dante Pettis had a standout performance in the return game, setting a career-high with 54 punt return yards, including a 53-yard return that set up a touchdown.

Looking Ahead: Saints Prepare for Rams After Week 12 Bye

With their victory over Cleveland, the Saints head into their Week 12 bye with renewed confidence. New Orleans will look to build on their strong performance as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams in a crucial game at home on December 1 at the Caesars Superdome. The team will aim to improve on their 3-3 home record in 2024 and continue their push for a playoff spot in the NFC.

As the season progresses, the Saints will rely on the momentum from their dominant win over Cleveland, the stellar play of Derek Carr, Taysom Hill’s all-around brilliance, and a defense that continues to make plays. With several key players putting up impressive stats, New Orleans will look to build on this victory and continue their push toward the postseason.