Michigan HS Graduates highlight the Saints Playoff win over Carolina

The New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers first round playoff game was a nail-biter in which the Saints held on to win, 31-26. Several Michigan High School graduates played an important role in the game including a clutch touchdown run that proved key.

2008 Oxford/SMU graduate RB/FB, Zach Line had a 1-yard touchdown plunge in the 2nd quarter which gave the Saints a 21-6 lead. The crunch time touchdown proved huge as it was the only carry Line had in the game and he made the best of it. Line also caught a pass for 7 yards in the 4th quarter.

2008 Flint Southwestern/Alabama graduate Mark Ingram won a Heisman Trophy while at Alabama and his expertise paid off big time for the Saints on Sunday night as Ingram finished with 9 carries for 22 yards and 1 reception for 13 yards. Ingram had one of the decisive plays of the game as the Saints receiver fumbled following a catch, but Ingram was there to recover the loose ball. The drive eventually ended with a Saints Field Goal.

2011 Muskegon Heights/Ball State graduate Willie Snead added 1 catch for 7 yards for the Saints.

For the Carolina Panthers: 2012 Farmington Hills Harrison/Michigan graduate Devin Funchess caught 4 passes for 79 yards. Funchess was listed as questionable entering the game with a shoulder injury that limited his practice during the week. Funchess had a career year as he finished with 63 catches for 840 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Okemos/Western Michigan Rookie offensive lineman, Taylor Moton didn't play any snaps during the game.

The Saints will play the Minnesota Vikings next week.