Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
By Ross Jackson
Last year, the New Orleans Saints landed a quarterback in the NFL Draft that brought a clutch gene to the team. Now, the Saints are set to add a weapon for that passer that brings a similar track record in wide receiver Jordyn Tyson.
Simply put, over the last two seasons, the Arizona State Sun Devils learned something important about their offense. Throwing to Tyson on third downs and in the fourth quarter is a winning strategy.
Third Downs
Over Tyson’s two years with Arizona State, he reeled in 136 receptions for 1,812 receiving yards and 18 touchdown catches.
Of those yards, 447 came on third downs, averaging just shy of 16 yards per reception.
On third downs, Saints quarterback Tyler Shough had the best passer rating (103.3) and second-highest completion percentage (66.7%) in the league last year among qualifying passers.
Adding Tyson’s impact on the pivotal game situation should only bolster one of the league’s best passers and help the offense stay on the field, especially early in games.
Fourth Quarter
Tyson has some impressive impact in late-game situations as well. Look no further than last year’s Sun Devils upset over Texas Tech for a prime example.
Almost half of Tyson’s touchdowns over the last two seasons have come in the fourth quarter, finding the endzone seven times in the closing period.
He has been a consistent go-to option as the game is winding down, accustomed to the pressure that accompanies that attention. He teams up with Shough, who led a pair of fourth-quarter comebacks and three game-winning drives during his rookie season.
When Trailing
Finally, Tyson was a staple when the Sun Devils were trailing.
Down one or two scores, Tyson caught 39 passes for 556 receiving yards and four touchdown receptions.
Even when not finding the endzone, he’s helped to put his team in position for go-ahead scores and presented a threat that will demand attention in the league, ideally opening up late opportunities for other playmakers on the roster.
Tyson’s impact should help the Saints continue to rise to the occasion when offense is needed most. His collegiate composure and target share suggest that he’s ready to be relied upon in the game’s most important moments.
