NFL2 hours ago2 minute read

Saints QB Tyler Shough Playing Through Two Broken Bones in Hand

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough is playing through two broken bones in his left hand as the team sits at 1-4.

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Tyler Shough playing through left hand injury

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough has been playing with two broken bones in his left hand. Shough suffered the injury during a 45-24 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Oct. 5. Despite the damage to his non throwing hand, he has not missed any playing time and plans to keep playing.

He has remained a full participant in practice. The injury is expected to take weeks or even a couple of months to heal completely.

Adapting on the field while owner demands results

The injury has forced Shough to adjust how he plays. He is taping his ring and pinky fingers together. Last week against Minnesota, he wore a protective glove over a heavily bandaged hand and handed off the ball with his opposite hand. He will use that same setup against the New York Giants on Sunday.

The Saints dropped to 1-4 following a 23-13 loss to the Vikings. Shough struggled in that game, passing for a career low 96 yards with two interceptions. Team owner Gayle Benson stated last Tuesday that the 1-4 start is not acceptable, criticizing coach Kellen Moore and general manager Mickey Loomis. Shough said he shares her frustration but thinks the Saints "are going to have a really good chance to go on a run here."

Season stats and upcoming schedule

Shough has completed 66.8% of his passes for 1,299 yards this season, which is seventh most in the NFL. He has attempted 205 passes, ranking second in the league, and has been sacked 13 times in five games.

Following Sunday's game against the Giants, New Orleans plays the Pittsburgh Steelers in Paris before going on a bye week. That upcoming break will give his hand more time to heal.

What it means for the next game

New Orleans Saints at New York Giants (NFL, Sun, 18 Oct): New York Giants win 48%, New Orleans Saints win 52%; projected score New York Giants 22, New Orleans Saints 23. Our safest pick: Under 53.5 points.

Pittsburgh Steelers at New Orleans Saints (NFL, Sun, 25 Oct): New Orleans Saints win 44%, Pittsburgh Steelers win 56%; projected score New Orleans Saints 21, Pittsburgh Steelers 23. Our safest pick: Over 37.5 points.