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MIAMI — Ryan Griffin was a sophomore at Tulane when he watched the New Orleans Saints march into Miami’s Sun Life Stadium and win the most important game in their history.

Now Griffin is a member of the Saints, and on Thursday he will return with the team for its first game at that site since it won Super Bowl XLIV.

The preseason finale against the Miami Dolphins will mean little to any players who have secured a spot on New Orleans’ 53-man roster and everything to those who haven’t.

For Griffin, an undrafted rookie and the Saints’ No. 3 quarterback, it will be the first time he’s expected to handle the bulk of the snaps as a pro.

“It’s ... a chance to show people what I can do, another chance to improve and get better,” he said. “You put stuff on film out there, so it’s definitely important.”

If what’s recorded at all resembles his outing in the Saints’ 31-23 win Sunday at Houston, anyone evaluating him will like what he sees.

Griffin completed eight of the 13 passes he attempted against the Texans after taking over for backup Luke McCown in the middle of the third quarter. Three of Griffin’s completions went for first downs on third-and-long.

Another, on third-and-9, went for a touchdown — the first of his pro career, delivered from Houston’s 15-yard line to Andy Tanner in the end zone over two defenders.

Griffin was 9-for-15 for 96 yards in the first two exhibitions. He has not turned the ball over.

“I think he’s handled this transition very well for a first-year player,” said coach Sean Payton, who told reporters that he anticipates Griffin entering Thursday’s game after McCown plays for about a quarter. “He’s got a demeanor that you want at that position.”

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Budsdrinker

Unfortunately I don't think we will keep 3 QB's and we will try to pass him through to the PS. If that happens he will be number 2 next year.

Rugby Saint II

Griffin will be sent to the PS where someone will offer him a job and we will have to match the offer and put him on the roster.

The Dude

I have high hopes for this guy. He has not looked too bad so far. Anyone think he has a shot at being that guy who is the developmental product to take over one day?

WhoDat!656

Depends on how he plays tonight; if he lights up the scoreboard, I don't think he will clear waivers to make it to the practice squad.

homerj07

Shine kid shine. Show em what you got.