​On Sunday, the New Orleans Saints had one of their best offensive performances of this season in a 23-22 overtime victory over the Cleveland Browns. New Orleans rolled up 396 total yards, including 160 on the ground. Both numbers were their second highest of the season to date. Now getting healthy, here’s where New Orleans ranks statistically on offense heading into Week 10.New Orleans Saints Total Offense23.1 points per game (15th)325.8 yards per game (19th)15 turnovers (27th)164 first downs (11th)43.5% third down efficiency (7th)70.4% red-zone percentage (4th)Saints passing attack230.5 yards per game (14th)66.2% completion percentage14 touchdowns (12th)6 interceptions (16th)20 sacksSaints running game95.3 yards per game (26th)3.8 per carry (27th)7 touchdowns (16th)New Orleans hasn’t had a major issue picking up first downs, converting third downs, or even getting across the goal line once in the red zone. However, slow starts because of poor game plans and play-calling have plagued the team in nearly every game. The biggest hindrance has been the lack of a running game, putting an extreme amount of pressure on second-year quarterback Tyler Shough and the passing game.New Orleans has surpassed 100 yards rushing in only three of their eight games, getting held to under 70 yards three times. With last week’s release of Kendre Miller, Tyler Shough is actually the team’s leading rusher with 162 yards. However, the running game has shown some signs of encouragement.Audric Estime rushed for 72 yards in last week’s win against Cleveland, a season-high for any Saints player. Lead back Travis Etienne looks close to a return to the lineup. Etienne had 128 rushing yards, a 4.3 average, and 11 catches for 51 yards in the first three weeks before getting sent to injured reserve with a hamstring injury. Alvin Kamara hasn’t contributed much as a runner, just 157 yards and a 3.3 average. However, Kamara’s 25 receptions for 150 yards shows he still has value as a receiver.A struggling running game is not all the fault of the backs. The Saints offensive line has not consistently gained any control of the point of attack. Moreover, this line has too often been porous in pass protection. Left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. is back after missing five games. His return was a noticeable boost for the line against the Browns. However, center Erik McCoy also sustained a biceps injury in that same game and will be sidelined for a minimum of a few weeks. At least initially, right guard Cesar Ruiz will slide into McCoy’s spot at center with either William Sherman or rookie Jeremiah Wright stepping in at guard. How the Saints respond to the shuffle on the interior line. Banks and guard David Edwards make a potentially formidable duo on the left side. However, right tackle Taliese Fuaga must play closer to his 2024 rookie form, something he’s been far from in 2026.Lack of balance and poor protection have certainly affected the passing attack negatively. However, Tyler Shough has be