Devin Neal gets his opportunity to lead the New Orleans Saints backfield on Sunday with Alvin Kamara sidelined. The rookie running back faces the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium in Week 13 action while nursing an ankle injury himself. Despite the pain, Neal practiced in limited capacity and appears set to shoulder increased responsibility.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Devin Neal listed as limited due to ankle injury but expected to start against Miami on November 30
- Alvin Kamara ruled out with MCL sprain suffered in Week 12 loss to Atlanta Falcons
- Saints currently 2-9 record, Dolphins at 4-7 with -5.5 point spread favoring Miami
- First meeting between teams since 2021; Saints won three of their last four matchups
Devin Neal Steps Into Starting Role
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Devin Neal was a limited practice participant Wednesday with his ankle issue but Saints head coach Kellen Moore expects him to start. The rookie running back played 86 percent of snaps in the final three quarters during Sunday’s 24-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons before the injury. His ability to practice Wednesday even in limited capacity signals confidence he will handle the workload.
Neal appears ready for the expanded opportunity despite the ankle concerns. Multiple sources indicate the Saints are counting on him to anchor their rushing attack against Miami’s defense, which allowed 31 rushing plays and just 20 passing attempts on Sunday in their most recent game. The Dolphins lean heavily on ground control, suggesting Neal will see plenty of touches.
Alvin Kamara Out With MCL Injury
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Alvin Kamara is officially ruled out after suffering an MCL sprain during the first half of Sunday’s loss. The Saints running back did not participate in Wednesday’s practice and missed Thursday’s session as well. His absence represents a significant blow given his experience and dual-threat capabilities in the Saints’ offensive scheme.
New Orleans quickly addressed the depth chart void by signing Evan Hull and Ian Wheeler to bolster backfield depth following Kamara’s injury. The move signals the team’s commitment to maintaining productivity despite losing their featured back mid-season. Saints fans will monitor Kamara’s recovery status throughout the week.
Saints-Dolphins Matchup Details and Records
| Team Statistics | Saints (2-9) | Dolphins (4-7) |
| Scoring Average | 15.0 PPG (31st) | 20.6 PPG (24th) |
| Points Allowed | 24.9 PPG (22nd) | 24.4 PPG (21st) |
| Rush Yards/Game | 91.5 YPG (29th) | 112.8 YPG (18th) |
| Pass Defense | 192.5 YPG (9th) | 207.2 YPG (12th) |
| Game Time | Sunday, November 30 at 1:00 PM EST on FOX | |
Key Storylines and Injury Updates
The Saints also marked offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga as limited in practice alongside Neal. Wide receiver Chris Olave left early during Wednesday’s session with what appeared to be a lower-body concern. New Orleans must navigate the injury report carefully heading into Miami despite starting a two-game Florida road trip.
Miami enters the contest rested following a bye week and two consecutive victories. The Dolphins have won their last outing, entering this matchup with momentum and extra time to prepare. New Orleans must shake off Sunday’s disappointing loss to Atlanta while dealing with personnel absences on key positions.
What Happens Sunday Against Miami in Week 13?
Can Devin Neal prove he’s ready to handle a primary role despite the ankle injury? The rookie must navigate Hard Rock Stadium in Miami while shouldering more carries than usual. His performance will significantly impact whether the Saints can climb back to .500 and create separation from remaining playoff contenders in a crowded NFC South.
The Miami Dolphins project as 5.5-point favorites according to oddsmakers. Saints defense ranks 9th in pass defense but 29th in rushing yards allowed, suggesting Miami’s ground attack could exploit the Saint’s weaker link. ESPN computer models give Miami a 65.7% probability of victory with the Saints at 34.1% chance for an upset.
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