Redemption story: A look back at Kendre Miller’s standout performance against Atlanta

It’s been almost six months since the New Orleans Saints beat the Atlanta Falcons in Week 18. For those who don’t remember the highlights, Jameis Winston and the offense called a last-second audible to set up Jamaal Williams for a touchdown, AT Perry scored two touchdowns, and Kendre Miller was nearly unstoppable.

Let’s look back at Miller’s performance and why it was such an important match for his young career.

Prior to this game, Miller only played in six games at running back. He was recovering from a knee injury to start the season and made his debut against the Green Bay Packers in Week 3. He then injured his ankle in Week 9 and would not return until the season finale.

In the season finale against the Falcons, Miller refused to let his turbulent rookie season stop his stellar performances.

In total, Miller carried the ball 13 times for 73 yards, or 5.6 yards per carry. He scored his first career touchdown, thanks to a courageous three-yard run that tied the score at 14.

In this game, Miller demonstrated his ability to create plays in a diverse set of running plays. He was able to find the edge and create big yards on the outside while drilling into the A gap and creating tough gains in the gut. Not only did we see Miller’s explosive speed as advertised at TCU, but we also observed his flexibility at the line and ability to maintain balance after initial contact.

That performance against Atlanta was exactly the game the coaching staff needed to move forward. Miller’s injuries were, and still are, a concern, but his performance against Atlanta was a potential sign of a bright future for the younger Miller.

This performance from Miller undoubtedly has repercussions on Alvin Kamara’s contract negotiations this offseason. The Saints may have found next in line at running back, if he can produce consistently like he did against the Falcons. Miller still has a lot to prove, but his performance against Atlanta showed that he has the potential to break into the NFL and could make a serious impact on offensive production.