Studs and Duds, Week 17: Jared Cook and Tre’Quan Smith impress

The New Orleans Saints beat the Carolina Panthers, thanks to big plays from Jared Cook and Tre’Quan Smith on a quiet day for Michael Thomas.

STUD: Tre’Quan Smith, wide receiver

Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

All season long, the Saints offense has been missing a complimentary wide receiver opposite of Michael Thomas. Smith’s inconsistency has been a frustrating part of that problem. But in a game where the league leader in receptions and receiving yards was kept quiet, Smith was able to step up and into a larger role in the offense.

Brees found Smith five times, gaining 56 yards and scoring a touchdown. Five receptions don’t seem like much, but they’re worth noting considering no other Saints wide receiver has caught that many since Ted Ginn Jr. reeled in seven passes back in Week 1. In fact, no other receiver not named Thomas has not caught more than three passes since that season-opener with the Texans. If Smith can continue producing and fostering trust with Brees, he could be a dark horse come the playoffs.

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