Paul Sancya / Associated Press

Saints WR Marques Colston had a season-high two touchdown catches.

It was over when ...
The Saints forced the Lions to punt on their opening possession of the second half and subsequently scored on a three-play drive to go up 35-7.

Game ball
Drew Brees gave himself an outside chance to break Dan Marino's all-time mark for passing yards (5,084) by racking up 351 against a struggling Lions secondary. He needs 402 in his final game against the Panthers -- a number he has already surpassed twice this year -- to set a new record.

Key stat
The stats were as lopsided as the final score, but one in particular stood out. The Saints were a remarkable 11-of-12 on third down, setting the stage for their dominance in every other offensive category.

Noteworthy
Four different New Orleans players scored a rushing touchdown. ... Saints CB Jason David established a career-high with his fifth interception of the year. ... Lions rookie Kevin Smith rushed for 111 yards, his second-highest total this season. ... Detroit became the first 0-15 team in NFL history.