The New Orleans Saints have fallen to 5-8 after being crushed by the New York Giants 52-27. With the defeat, New Orleans erases their slim playoff chances, as well as their opportunity to finish the 2012 season with a winning record.

On a dark, rainy day in the Meadowlands, the only thing nastier than the weather was the Saints kickoff coverage.

Rookie running back David Wilson propelled the Giants to an easy win with his play in the return game. He returned the opening kickoff of the game 44 yards. Several minutes later, the Saints took their only lead of the game on a 73 yard interception return for a touchdown by Elbert Mack. The lead lasted 13 seconds, as Wilson took back the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a score.

Wilson rushed for 100 yards, and returned several more kickoffs for big gainers. In all, he finished with a franchise record 327 all-purpose yards.

Offensively, the Saints racked up plenty of yards, but turned the ball over too often. 487 yards of offense was put to waste because of 4 turnovers. Two early fumbles, and two Drew Brees interceptions didn't help the Saints cause.

One of the few bright spots for New Orleans' offense was young wideout Joe Morgan. While he only caught 2 balls, both were big gains, giving him 103 yards on the day. Darren Sproles scored twice for Saints, once through the air on a 9 yard reception, the other on a 13 yard run.

Eli Manning had a respectable day of the Giants, tossing 4 touchdowns to 4 different receivers. He completed 22 of his 35 passes, throwing two interceptions.

After beginning the season 0-4, the Saints crawled back to 5-5, but have since lost 3 in a row.

Next Sunday the Saints return home for a divisional matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-7). Kickoff is set for noon.

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