Saints snap-count analysis vs. Panthers: Rest played factor in distribution

The New Orleans Saints rested starters late in their blowout win over the Carolina Panthers, allowing backups like Janoris Jenkins to shine.

Special teams

  • QB Taysom Hill, 23 (74%)
  • CB Justin Hardee, 23 (74%)
  • LB Craig Robertson, 23 (74%)
  • LB Stephone Anthony, 23 (74%)
  • RB Dwayne Washington, 21 (68%)
  • SS J.T. Gray, 21 (68%)
  • DE Carl Granderson, 17 (55%)
  • CB Patrick Robinson, 16 (52%)
  • TE Josh Hill, 15 (48%)

Once again, QB3 Hill turned in the highest snap count on special teams despite also playing an expanded role in the offense. Harris, the rookie Pro Bowler, had another phenomenal day as the kick returns specialist by fielding two punts, including a 15-yard gain. His continued special teams play will be a key factor for New Orleans in the playoffs.

Defensive line

  • DE Trey Hendrickson, 42 (59%)
  • DE Carl Granderson, 39 (55%)
  • DT David Onyemata, 36 (51%)
  • DE Cam Jordan, 33 (46%)
  • NT Malcom Brown, 31 (44%)
  • NT Taylor Stallworth, 30 (42%)
  • DT Shy Tuttle, 29 (41%)
  • DT Mario Edwards Jr., 28 (39%)

Granderson saw a significant increase on his snaps share, again most likely due to the fact that Onyemata saw significant rest on Sunday. Jordan, despite seeing his snap count cut in half from his average, still recorded a sack bringing him to over 15.5 sacks on the year, a career high.

Linebackers

  • LB A.J. Klein, 55 (77%)
  • LB Demario Davis, 36 (51%)
  • LB Craig Robertson, 35 (49%)
  • LB Kiko Alonso, 22 (31%)

Linebacker Manti Te’o was inactive on Sunday after having played the last two games in a significant capacity. Klein once again was a star for the linebacker corps by recording five solo tackles. Davis had a reduced snap count, much like the rest of the Saints starters heading into the fourth quarter.

Defensive secondary

  • CB P.J. Williams, 71 (100%)
  • CB Janoris Jenkins, 71 (100%)
  • CB Patrick Robinson, 64 (90%)
  • SS C.J. Gardner-Johnson, 50 (70%)
  • CB Justin Hardee, 36 (51%)
  • CB Marshon Lattimore, 36 (51%)
  • S D.J. Swearinger, 33 (46%)
  • SS J.T. Gray, 4 (6%)

Jenkins played on every single snap of the game on Sunday. He recorded five tackles, and a late interception in the end zone to effectively end the game. With cornerback Eli Apple out, Jenkins had to step up. Robinson played over 90% of the defensive snaps, but not in his natural position. Instead, he lined up at safety, which bodes well for the secondary’s depth if either Vonn Bell or Marcus Williams remain sidelined. It’s always helpful to have versatile backups.

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