Taysom Hill, a Love Story

 

On Friday word broke that Taysom Hill, the X-Factor for the Saints, will start at quarterback with Drew Brees injured and on IR. This came as a mild shock since the team invested in Jameis Winston, who threw for more than 30 TDs and 5,000 yards for the Buccaneers in 2019, this off-season. But, to me, it feels like the right move.

Hill has been on the Saints for a few years and signed a two-year extension for more than $20 million in the off-season. And Saints' coach Sean Payton has indicated he views Hill as more than a gadget player, and this decision to start him at quarterback confirms that decision.

Hill played four seasons at BYU, where he threw for 6,929 yards and 43 TDs, with 31 INTS. He also ran for 2,815 yards and 32 additional TDs. Some comparisons to Tim Tebow have seemed apt, but unlike Tebow who fought to be a starting quarterback, Hill has readily welcomed the Weapon X role in New Orleans.

Now in his fourth season, Hill has run for 538 yards and four touchdowns, catching 28 passes for 312 yards and seven more touchdowns. That hasn't included a ton of passing, going just 10-for-18 for 205 yards and an interception. That should change on Sunday.

I was a huge fan of Tebow for his skills, energy and the passion he brought to the field. Hill, in his time with New Orleans, has done the same. And in pre-season when he's been given a chance, he's been fun to watch as a quarterback, too. Even during the off-season there was a lot of discussion about his ability to, potentially, be the face of the franchise for the Saints.

Sunday, is a step in that direction. I don't think he rolls out to a Top 10 finish in week 1, but I'm excited to see Hill play, and I think he'll thrive. It's time, or rather it's Hill time!