NEW ORLEANS - It took the New Orleans Saints more than 59 minutes to score a touchdown, but they still managed to pull out a much needed win.

While familiar issues remained problematic, the Saints were able to hold on to defeat the Cleveland Browns in overtime 23-22. The win gives New Orleans its first victory at home in the Superdome in 2026.

Once again, it was a slow start on offense for the Saints, though they did look improved moving the ball. The run game averaged five yards per carry and was an actual factor in the offense, with Audriuc Estime leading the way with 15 carries for 72 yards. It was Estime who finally scored the Saints' first touchdown of the game in the fourth quarter to give New Orleans a 16-13 lead.

The Browns were then able to respond after a massive 3rd down conversion. With pressure in his face, Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders threw a 30-yard completion for Jerry Jeudy. After the completion, Cleveland kicker Amdre Szmyt kicked a 51-yard field goal to tie the game at 16 and send the game to overtime.

After the Saints got the ball to start overtime, they ran a smooth 11-play, nearly six-minute drive, which ended in a Tyler Shough touchdown pass to Juwan Johnson. After the extra point, it looked like the Saints had the game in hand.

But once again, the Browns were able to drive down the field. Browns tight end Harold Fannin Jr. broke a tackle and ran for a 39-yard touchdown, and Browns head coach Todd Monken made the decision to go for two.

The Browns wanted the win.

Sanders couldn't connect with Denzel Boston, and even if he did, holding was called on offensive lineman Tytus Howard. The try was unsuccessful, and the Saints would escape with a win.

New Orleans is now 3-5 on the season and very much still in the hunt for the NFC South title. The Saints play the Carolina Panthers next week.