The Saints are out of playoff contention, which makes this Sunday’s game against Tampa Bay meaningless in the minds of many fans. But Coach Sean Payton anticipates his players will prepare as if they are fighting for a playoff spot…

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With the Saints missing out on the playoffs for the third time since 2008, changes are likely to occur with the roster.

Former LSU standout Jeremy Hill rushed for 147 yards, including an 85 yard touchdown run, as the Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Denver Broncos 37-28 in Monday Night Football action. The win secures a Bengals playoff berth for the fourth straight year. They’ll play Pittsburgh Sunday night with the winner taking the AFC North title. Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning threw for 311 yards and two touchdowns, but was picked off four times in the loss. The Broncos have already clinched the AFC West.

The Louisiana Tech football team arrived in Big “D” yesterday where they’ll play Illinois in the Zaxby’s Heart of Dallas Bowl on Friday. The Bulldogs are a six point favorite against the Fighting Illini. The game has a noon kickoff and will be televised on ESPN.

Texas A-and-M has reportedly reached out to see if LSU defensive coordinator John Chavis is interested in taking the same job with the Aggies. There’s an additional report that Chavis has been offered a three-year, four-million dollar contract extension from LSU, no word of if he has signed it.

On the college hardwood last night, Central Florida beat Southeastern 70-65, Indiana upended UNO 79-59, number 22 Baylor edged Southern 70-66, Central Michigan crushed McNeese 87-58, 25th ranked TCU blasted Grambling 80-36, it was LSU over the College of Charleston 71-47, and number 13 Washington defeated Tulane 66-57.

Today, Southeastern takes on South Florida and Louisiana Tech will face North Carolina State.