06:45 LRN SPORTSCAST DECEMBER 31

The Saints face a must-win situation on Sunday in order to make the playoffs when they host the Carolina Panthers in the final home game of the year. But the Black and Gold have won only once inside the Dome this year. Offensive tackle James Hurst can’t pinpoint why they haven’t been more successful in New Orleans…:
Cut 15 (20) “cheer about”
The game kicks off at 3:25pm.

Meanwhile it appears Saints Quarterback Jameis Winston’s recovery is moving along. He was captured on video by his rehab doctor on Thursday throwing a football for the first time since he underwent knee surgery last month.

In college hoops Louisiana Tech extends its home win streak to eight following an easy 79-56 victory over Marshall Thursday night. The game was the Conference USA opener for both teams.

UL-Lafayette had an easy time over App State in their Sun Belt Conference opener, winning 71-55 on the road.

ULM was riding a 6-game win streak going into their game last night but ended up falling hard to Coastal Carolina 94-64.

The LSU women’s basketball team improves to 13-1 following its biggest win of the year. The Tigers prevailed over No. 13 Georgia on the road to claim the 68-62 victory.

New Orleans Saints legend Sam Mills has become a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his final year of eligibility. The NFL and Pro Football Hall of Fame announced the former NFL players under consideration for Modern-Era player category honor on Thursday.