Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey decided to showcase his throwing skills in Monday night's game against the New Orleans Saints.

With both teams searching for points in the first quarter, it was the Panthers that struck first in a very unusual way on fourth down.

McCaffrey took the handoff from quarterback Cam Newton, and with the Saints fully expecting the former Stanford star to try to rush for the first down, he let it fly through the air to a wide-open Chris Manhertz for a huge touchdown.

We've known for a while that McCaffrey is one of the best running and receiving backs in the entire NFL, but it's clear that he's also among the best at throwing the ball down the field.

This was the type of gamble that Ron Rivera absolutely loves, and it paid off for his team in a big way against a New Orleans team that's been one of the best in the league this season.

As for the Panthers, they are looking for any confidence boost that they can get right now, with Rivera's squad currently riding a five-game losing streak after a 6-2 start.

That's put McCaffrey and company in desperation mode when it comes to trying to make the playoffs, which is surprising after the way they started off the 2018 campaign.

This will be one of two remaining games against the Saints, with Carolina also set for a matchup with the Atlanta Falcons in Week 16.

If McCaffrey keeps throwing more touchdown passes, a postseason appearance could be within reach.