Saints near meltdown in 2nd half vs. Colts... a blessing in disguise
I think the OP has a great point. I don't know that it would have been bad to win without giving up that lead. I do believe though that the game illustrated precisely why you play all four quarters with equal intensity.
In this league, it only takes a few lucky bounces or, a few missed assignments, or a couple slip-up/trip-ups, and the opponent is right back in the game.
So yes it's important not so much as to keep egos in check (which I think it might do) but it helps a team (especially with so much youth) learn how to be a team that finishes strong.
It's a good win. I'll take it. But the difference between winning and losing in the NFL is a very thin line.
That's the lesson.