Falcons' Jackson, Saints' Thomas, injured

NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- Atlanta running back Steven Jackson and New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas both were injured and have been ruled out for the second half of Sunday's pivotal NFC South game between the Falcons and Saints.

The Falcons say Jackson has a quad muscle injury, while the Saints say Thomas hurt his ribs.

Jackson entered Week 16 leading Atlanta in rushing with 698 yards and six touchdowns. He rushed four times for 9 yards and had a 14-yard reception on Sunday.

Thomas came in with 222 yards and two TDs rushing, but has also been effective as a receiver out of the backfield, with 43 catches for 354 yards and a TD. He had two catches for 24 yards against Atlanta before going out.