The Eagles may have given the Saints a 120-yard lead, but they are behind in the only statistic that really matters.

New Orleans kicked a field goal on its first drive and neither team was able to score any more points the rest of the half. The 3-0 lead isn’t what we’ve come to expect from the Saints this season, but given how things could have gone, they’re happy to take it.

Tyrann Mathieu thwarted an Eagles scoring opportunity by out-hitting Devonta Smith in the end zone on a pass from Jalen Hurts, and the Eagles failed to convert a fourth-down attempt from the Eagles 15-yard line on their final offensive play of the half. The decision not to kick a field goal may not be as hotly debated as head coach Nick Sirianni’s decision last Monday night, but the decision not to let Saquon Barkley run on a conventional play might be.

The Eagles lined up as if they were going to try the tush push, but Hurts instead gave the ball to Barkley on a sweep. The Saints were not fooled and took a knee on the next play to end the half.

Hurts also lost a fumble on a sack by Carl Granderson, adding to a frustrating half for the Eagles. In addition to the mistakes, right tackle Lane Johnson underwent a concussion evaluation and right guard Mekhi Becton is questionable about returning because of a finger injury. The Saints lost center Erik McCoy to a groin injury, leaving both offensive lines thin to start the second half.