“MIND-BLOWING!” – Taysom Hill’s impact on the Saints’ offense is significant, and the numbers back it up

Taysom Hill’s Impact on the Saints’ Offense is Significant, and the Numbers Back It Up

Taysom Hill has been a unique asset to the New Orleans Saints ever since he joined the team in 2017. Dubbed the “Swiss Army Knife” of the NFL for his versatility, Hill has played nearly every offensive role possible—quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and tight end. His ability to fill multiple positions has been key to the Saints’ offensive success, and the numbers prove just how crucial his contributions have been.

In an era where specialization is often prized, Hill’s versatility stands out as one of the most remarkable aspects of the Saints’ offensive game plan. Over the last few seasons, New Orleans has increasingly leaned on Hill, not just as a gadget player but as an integral component of their offensive scheme. Whether it’s lining up under center in a wildcat formation, catching passes, or pounding the ball in short-yardage situations, Hill’s influence on the game often leaves defenses guessing.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

In the 2022 season, Hill’s impact became even more evident. He played in all 16 games and amassed 575 rushing yards on 96 carries, averaging an impressive 6.0 yards per carry. His nine rushing touchdowns were the most on the team, even outpacing star running back Alvin Kamara. These numbers highlight how valuable Hill is in short-yardage and red-zone situations, where his physicality and ability to break tackles give the Saints a powerful edge.

But his contributions don’t stop there. Hill also added 240 passing yards, completing 13 of 19 pass attempts with two touchdowns and no interceptions. Though he doesn’t throw the ball often, his ability to switch from a running threat to a passer adds another layer of complexity to the Saints’ offense. Teams preparing for Hill know they can’t key in on one aspect of his game, as he’s just as likely to scramble for a first down as he is to launch a deep pass.

As a receiver, Hill has proven capable of making big plays, too. In the 2022 season, he caught 7 passes for 66 yards, a relatively modest stat line but another reminder of his ability to contribute in different areas when called upon.

A Red-Zone Weapon

One of the most telling signs of Hill’s importance is his role in the red zone. The Saints often call on him in critical moments when the offense needs to punch the ball into the end zone. His dual-threat ability as a runner and passer keeps defenses guessing, making him extremely effective in these situations. In 2022, Hill’s nine rushing touchdowns accounted for nearly a third of the Saints’ total rushing TDs, proving just how pivotal he is when the team is close to scoring.

Game-Changing Versatility

Beyond the stats, Hill’s mere presence on the field forces opposing defenses to adjust. When Hill enters the game, defensive coordinators know they have to prepare for a wide range of possibilities. Is he going to run? Will he pass? Or is he a decoy for another player? This uncertainty gives the Saints a tactical advantage that few teams possess, allowing them to manipulate matchups and create mismatches.

For example, in Week 5 of the 2022 season against the Seattle Seahawks, Hill had one of the most remarkable performances of his career. He rushed for 112 yards on just nine carries and scored three touchdowns. He also threw for a 22-yard touchdown pass. Hill’s performance was instrumental in the Saints’ 39-32 win, showcasing his ability to take over games when given the opportunity.

The Perfect Complement to a Traditional Offense

Hill’s flexibility allows the Saints to balance their offensive attack. With a traditional pocket passer like Derek Carr leading the team, Hill becomes the perfect complementary piece. His ability to run physical plays, often in short-yardage or red-zone situations, frees up other players to execute different schemes. Hill also gives New Orleans a way to keep defenses on their heels, preventing them from settling into comfortable formations.

 

Taysom Hill’s impact on the New Orleans Saints’ offense goes far beyond traditional stats. His versatility allows the team to execute a wide range of offensive schemes, making him a crucial part of their game plan. The numbers back up his importance, particularly in short-yardage and red-zone situations where his physicality and versatility shine. As long as Hill is healthy, the Saints can count on him to be a game-changer who adds depth and unpredictability to their offense. In a league that prizes specialization, Hill’s multi-dimensional skill set remains a rare and valuable asset.