Saints at Bills: Highlights, score and recap

On Sunday at Orchard Park, the Buffalo Bills were routed by the New Orleans Saints. What did we learn from this interconference clash?

Following yet another 0-2 start, the New Orleans Saints appeared as if they were preparing for another 7-9 season. That’s how Sean Payton’s team has finished each of the past three years and four of the last five NFL campaigns. And keep in mind that the Saints allowed a combined 65 points in losses to the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots.

Then came the turnaround to the tune of six straight wins, a streak they took into Buffalo on Sunday to face the improved 5-3 Bills. Unfortunately, this did not look like a team with a winning record when last we saw Sean McDermott’s squad on a Thursday night against the New York Jets.

But today was a chance for redemption. Did the Bills bounce back with a strong effort against Drew Brees and company? McDermott’s club never seemed to know what the hit them as New Orleans rolled to a 47-10 victory.

Three Stars

1. Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara

It was a big afternoon for the Saints’ 1-2 punch in the backfield. Ingram carried 21 times for 131 yards and three touchdowns while his rookie counterpart totaled 106 yards and a score on a dozen attempts. Sean Payton’s team rushed for 298 yards in the convincing victory.

2. Michael Thomas

The second-year wide receiver was targeted 10 times on the afternoon and hauled in nine passes for 117 yards as the Saints rolled to a seventh consecutive win.

3. Sheldon Rankins

It was a day for the defense in Buffalo once again and the second-year defensive tackle had a nice afternoon. Rankins finished with two tackles, one sack and an interception in the rout of the Bills.

More fansided.com: NFL power rankings, Week 9: Rams rising, Broncos in free fall

Odds

The Saints were a slight favorite to extend their winning streak on Sunday at Orchard Park. But the Bills were perfect at home this season (4-0) entering this interconference clash with New Orleans.

Next Week

The Saints are back in the Crescent City and play host to the Washington Redskins. Meanwhile, the Bills head to the west coast to face veteran quarterback Philip Rivers and the the Los Angeles Chargers.