Overview
- Smyth’s kick lifted New Orleans over Carolina 20-17 for the Saints’ first lead of the game and their second straight victory after a 2-10 start.
- The 24-year-old former Gaelic football goalkeeper and recent teaching graduate joined the NFL via the International Player Pathway Program.
- He previously secured a preseason winner from 37 yards to make the practice squad, then was promoted after the Saints cut Blake Grupe and hit a 56-yarder in his first regular-season attempt in Week 13.
- Against the Panthers he also converted a 42-yard field goal and two extra points, finishing a perfect night of four successful kicks.
- Teammates celebrated with locker-room chants as coach Kellen Moore presented a game ball, and rookie quarterback Tyler Shough praised Smyth’s poise after leading a 62-yard drive to set up the winner.