NFL: Carolina 31, New Orleans 21
Published: Dec. 31, 2006 at 7:15 PM
NEW ORLEANS, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Jake Delhomme threw for 207 yards and two TDs Sunday as the Carolina Panthers beat the New Orleans Saints, 31-21.
The Panthers (8-8) had been regarded as a potential Super Bowl team, and finished the season with two victories -- but that came after a four-game losing streak that just about killed their playoff chances. They were eliminated from contention Saturday night when the New York Giants beat Washington.
Despite the loss, New Orleans (10-6) is in the playoffs as the NFC South champion. Coach Sean Payton gave most of the starters a breather after the first quarter Sunday.
Quarterback Drew Brees led the Saints to a touchdown early, when Reggie Bush scored on a one-yard run to cap an eight-play, 65-yard drive. Brees finished 4-of-5 for 46 yards.
Bush gained 20 yards on three rushes and 13 yards on two pass receptions.
Delhomme went 23-of-27 passing. DeShaun Foster picked up 79 yards and scored a TD on 19 carries, while Steve Smith caught seven passes for 85 yards and two touchdowns.
The Panthers (8-8) had been regarded as a potential Super Bowl team, and finished the season with two victories -- but that came after a four-game losing streak that just about killed their playoff chances. They were eliminated from contention Saturday night when the New York Giants beat Washington.
Despite the loss, New Orleans (10-6) is in the playoffs as the NFC South champion. Coach Sean Payton gave most of the starters a breather after the first quarter Sunday.
Quarterback Drew Brees led the Saints to a touchdown early, when Reggie Bush scored on a one-yard run to cap an eight-play, 65-yard drive. Brees finished 4-of-5 for 46 yards.
Bush gained 20 yards on three rushes and 13 yards on two pass receptions.
Delhomme went 23-of-27 passing. DeShaun Foster picked up 79 yards and scored a TD on 19 carries, while Steve Smith caught seven passes for 85 yards and two touchdowns.
© 2006 United Press International. All Rights Reserved.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
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