Yesterday’s game was quite rewarding for the New Orleans Saints. As the No 1. contender for the NFC South with a 8-2 record, it’s safe to say the Saints are definitely making great strides this season. After the Saints strategically battered the Dallas Cowboys, they turned the same ingenuity toward the San Francisco 49ers yesterday. However, the road to victory wasn’t as easily acquired. With the 49ers overall stature this season, NFL enthusiasts and fans alike were well aware that a win for the Saints would prove to be a bit more challenging. However, the Saints’ 23-20 win over the 49ers proves they definitely rose the occasion.

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But, the battle is far from over. With the 6-3 Carolina Panthers on their heels in the NFC South, and the Seattle Seahawks knocking down teams left and right, there are actually more challenges ahead than behind, NOLA reports. But with the Saints’ resolute offensive and defensive structure, they should be able to come out on top in any challenging situation. In addition to Saints’ QB Drew Brees, WR Darren Sproles, and TE Jimmy Graham, the Saints have a number of other strongholds that put big numbers to lead the team to victory. Last night, WR Marques Colston, the entire defensive front, and kicker Garrett Hartley received the game balls, as they were the key components in yesterday’s game.

Final scoreboard #SFvsNO pic.twitter.com/pOet49TmVh

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) November 18, 2013

Here’s why:
Marques Colston ended the game with five catches for 80 yards. Two of his catches for 14 and 20 yards were critical gains in the Saints’ last two drives toward the game-winning field goal. The Saints’ defensive front also played a major part in the win. They were able to put an enormous cap on the 49ers offense rushing QB Colin Kaepernick, with 6 quarterback hits. Containing Frank Gore was also a commendable feat. They reduced Gore to a mere 48 yards on 13 carries, which equates to an average of only 2 yards per touch. The defensive front also produced 3 critical sacks with Akiem Hicks, Cam Jordan, and Junior Galette all contributing one a piece.

Last but not least, Saints’ kicker Garrett Hartley was able to put the critical points on the board. Hartley was able to kick 3-for-3, with a crucial 42-yard field goal that tied the game. He also kicked the game-winning 31-yard field goal. The New Orleans Saints network took to Twitter to share the momentous honors with fans.

.@MarquesColston also received a game ball after yesterday's win #SFvsNO pic.twitter.com/6qJKTolimX

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) November 18, 2013

.@SeanPayton gave @GHartley5 a game ball after the win yesterday #Saints pic.twitter.com/JATTgzh1Vz

— New Orleans Saints (@Saints) November 18, 2013

Image(s) via Twitter | New Orleans Saints   Twitter | New Orleans Saints