The New Orleans Saints needed a win to keep their season alive after week 18. Sunday afternoon, the Saints grinded out a 18-10 win over a Carolina Panthers team who has played woefully down the stretch. As was the case over the last four weeks, the Saints defense once again played a dominant game, with the offense continuing to struggle. Although, the Saints scored their first offensive touchdown in 11 quarters during the fourth quarter of the game, which ended up being the go-ahead score. Defensively, P.J. Williams forced a fumble, Cam Jordan finished with 3.5 sacks and C.J. Gardner-Johnson ended the game with an interception during the Panthers final drive. Brett Maher connected on four field goals to keep the Saints within striking distance all game long. Alvin Kamara had a big day after struggling statistically over the last few weeks. Sports betting wise. the Saints covered the 7.5 point spread as favorites in this game. The Saints are now 8-8 against the spread this season, just like their regular season record. The Saints will take on their rivals, the Atlanta Falcons, in Atlanta for a pivotal matchup where the Saints could clinch a playoff spot. The Saints will need help from a few other teams, but next Sunday's game could be the last of the season for the black and gold. Rod Walker's Column on Saints winRod Walker: Saints still alive in playoff hunt, and you can thank the defense for that Jeff Duncan's column on Saints winJeff Duncan: Somehow, some way, these plucky Saints are still in this thing Game recap storyAfter dominant day by Saints defense, New Orleans keeps playoff hopes alive with win over Panthers Betting Recap of Saints gameSaints betting recap: Saints stay alive and cover in defensive victory over Panthers Until next time... Devin Jackson | 