Saints Pigskin Blog

Super Saints Weekly 230

Tue, 12 Dec 2006 04:21:50 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 230

Saints vs. Cowboys Game Recap

The Saints continued to prove people wrong this week with their victory over the Dallas Cowboys. For several weeks many in the media have ordained the Cowboys the top team in the NFC, but the Saints came in Sunday and dismantled them. If the Cowboys are the cream of the NFC, then perhaps the Saints are the cherry on top.

The Saints came into the game as an underdog according to many in the media and those who cover the game. Early on it seemed as if that might be the case as the Saints gave up a big run that allowed the Cowboys to score and take the early lead 7-0. However, just as quickly as <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Dallas grabbed the momentum, the Saints took it right back. Unlike in previous games, the Saints seemed to rely more on their 2nd, and 3rd string players during the course of this game than they have in the past and proved that they could win even without some of their star players. The term “statement game” is used a lot on a weekly basis by many in the media, but this game truly lived up to the term. The Saints not only beat one of the better teams in the NFC, but put themselves in excellent position possibly to win the division, get a bye for the first round of the playoffs, and get a home game for the playoffs.

Player of the Game

This week Drew Brees could easily be awarded the player of the game award; however, I think due to his surprising performance this week Mike Karney deserves the player of the game honors. Karney came into the game having never scored a touch-down, but ended the game with 3 touchdowns. Not only that, but he continued his hard nosed blocking that helped to open holes for both Deuce and Reggie all game long. This is the first player of the game award from the Super Saints Weekly for Karney and so once again I would like to say bravo to him for his performance.

Saints vs. Redskins

The Saints will face the Washington Redskins this week in what will be possibly the most important game thus far this season for the Saints. If things break right this week for the Saints, then they could clinch the NFC South division this week. In order for the Saints to do this, they will need to play a solid game and limit turnovers. Offensively the Saints will need to establish the run so that their passing attack can face more man coverage and make more holes for Brees to hit. They will also need to watch out for the blitz, since the Redskins enjoy blitzing the quarterback. Defensively the Saints will need to limit big plays by the Redskins and try to keep pressure on the Redskins young quarterback. If the Saints are able to do this, then they should get their 10th win of the season and perhaps clinch the division.

Q & A

Q & A is the question and answer section. If you have a question you would like answered, email it to SuperSaintsWeekly@yahoo.com with the subject heading of Q&A and we will try to answer the question to the best of our ability.

Q – How can we protest the suspension of Hollis Thomas? I cannot believe that the NFL would suspend Thomas for his asthma medicine; someone has something against the Saints. – Walt Crawford

A – Walt, I must agree that what happened to Hollis is very strange. However, right now with the current NFL rules, Hollis will end up having to serve the suspension. That being said, don’t be surprised if the NFL takes another look at this in the off-season and perhaps tries to correct this loophole in the system.

Psycho’s View

How about those Saints? With a quality coach, solid quarterback, and a rushing attack with an amazing one two punch, the Saints are one of the better teams in the NFL. This is amazing considering the past five years and the struggles the Saints have been through during that time. Payton has not only changed some of the players and staff of the team, but the mentality and atmosphere of the organization. The Saints appear to have serious chances for coach of the year, MVP, rookie of the year, and comeback player of the year. That is amazing considering that last year the Saints finished 3-13 and hope seemed all but gone from this team. I’d like to say bravo to the Saints & their coaching staff for not only turning things around, but helping to bring energy to a city that desperately needed it.

Super Saints Weekly 229

Tue, 05 Dec 2006 02:34:22 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 229

Game Recap

The Saints continued their winning ways this week with a solid victory against the former division rival San Francisco 49ers. These two teams renewed a rivalry this week that had grown to be a heated one when both teams competed in the same division. However, unlike many of their past meetings, it was the Saints who dominated in their victory. Although the passing game seemed to struggle at times a bit this week due to the injuries to Joe Horn and Colston, the running game stepped up to help shoulder the load. Even though Brees was unable to continue his consecutive 300 yard plus passing yard game streak, the rushing attack seemed to help the Saints physically dominate their opponents. Hopefully the team will be able to use this momentum when preparing for next week’s key match-up against the Dallas Cowboys.

Player of the Game

This week’s player of the game award obviously goes to the Saints rookie running back Reggie Bush who showed flashes of brilliance this game. Bush has struggled early to adapt to the NFL running style and has primarily been used as a decoy; however, today he showed his ability to mix a “north south” running style along with his illusiveness. Bush finished the game with 37 rushing yards, 131 receiving yards, and 4 touchdowns for the game. If he continues to play this way and progress, then the star that the Saints drafted from college might just end up fulfilling his potential as a game breaker in the NFL.

Also, I would like to take a few moments to give an honorable mention this week to the Saints defense. While they were not spectacular, the Saints defense forced turnovers when needed and really shut down the 49ers passing attack. They seemed to really dominate the line of scrimmage, which helped shut down the 49ers rushing attack, and frustrated their young quarterback, forcing him to throw 3 interceptions. So congratulations to the Saints defense this week with their performance.

Saints vs. Cowboys Game Preview

The Saints will face the Dallas Cowboys next in what will likely be one of the biggest games for the Saints this year in terms of the effects it could have on the post season. This will be the first regular season match-up between Bill Parcels and his former offensive coordinator Sean Payton. For the Saints towin this game, they will need to limit turnovers. Offensively the Saints will need to control the clock, keep a good balance of rushing and passing and keep the chains moving to keep Dallas’s offense off the field, while wearing out the Dallas defense. Defensively, the Saints will need to put Mike McKenzie on Terrell Owens or Terry Glen while double covering the other. With Tony Romo having a solid year since taking over the Cowboys offense, the Saints would likely be better served to try and shut down the rush and force the Cowboys into 3rd and long situations to try and force turnovers.

Q & A

Q – JB, with the Saints win against the 49ers, do you think they really have a chance at pulling out a playoff birth and a first round bye? – Tony; New Orleans, La

A – Tony, a playoff birth is too early to say, but obviously they have a great chance. If they continue to play how they have so far this season and even if they only win half of their games left on the schedule, then the chance of them making the playoffs is great. However, I suggest you don’t get ahead of yourself, there is still a lot of football to be played and once fans start looking ahead, chances are some team members might also. So let’s try to take it one game at a time; if the Saints do that, then the playoffs should be on the horizon.

Psycho’s View

The Saints continued their winning ways against the 49’ers this week, with a big victory to keep their lead in the NFC South. This has been an excellent season for the Saints, with each week seeming to provide a new star for the Saints. While this isn’t truly that big of a surprise to see the Saints playing so well this season, what is a surprise is the quickness that the team seemed to gel this season and how well they have performed with what appeared to be one of the NFL’s most difficult schedules. While the regular season isn’t over yet and a playoff bid isn’t guaranteed, with the team playing like this, fans have high hopes and reasons to believe in them. So for the Saints and their performance thus far this year, bravo and keep up the good work boys.

Super Saints Weekly 228

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 01:52:08 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 228

Saints in Playoff Position

The Saints put themselves in excellent position this week by completing the season sweep of the Atlanta Falcons. The victory was key in snapping a two game losing streak; however, perhaps the biggest key to this victory is the fact that the win put the Saints in control of the division, along with in the hunt for a possible bye and home field advantage in the playoffs.

This win, combined with the Giants and Bears losses, has put the Saints right in the thick of the hunt for a first round bye. With <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Carolina, Giants, and Cowboys all left on the schedule for the Saints, they will have the opportunity to try and eliminate the competition for one of the two byes in the playoffs. This could turn out to be huge for the Saints for two big reasons. The first is the home field advantage could be huge considering the electric atmosphere that the Saints fans create for Saints home games. The second reason this could be huge for the Saints is that the influx of money that a playoff game could bring to the city could really help in getting the Big Easy back on the right track.

While the Saints still have a lot of work ahead of them to get a home playoff game and a bye, they have done everything they can thus far to put themselves in a good position down the stretch. Hopefully the team will be able to continue to win against some of their key opponents and give them a shot to achieve this goal. If they are able to do this then the atmosphere and excitement surrounding that game will likely be just as energetic as the Saints first home game against the Falcons was early in the season.

Game Recap

The Saints managed to break their losing streak this week against the division rival Atlanta Falcons. Overall the Saints looked good and seemed to be playing with a purpose once again. This was a key victory for the Saints as it concerns their playoff hopes. With this week’s win against the Falcons, the Saints are now 7-4 and very much alive in the playoff hunt and possible divisional crown. Hopefully they will be able to continue with this new momentum through the remainder of their schedule & into the playoffs.

Player of the Game

This week’s Player of the Game is Drew Brees in his performance against the rival Atlanta Falcons. Brees had yet another excellent game, finishing with 349 yards passing, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. His performance helped the Saints to elevate their play and get the victory. If Brees and the Saints can continue play like this, then this could be the first win of many down the stretch. With his performance this week, Brees set a league record for most yards passing over a five game stretch with 300 plus passing yards over each.

Saints vs. 49ers

The Saints will be facing one of the league’s hottest teams this week when they square off against the 49ers. The 49ers have over achieved as have the Saints this year and this game promises to be a pretty solid match up. In order for the Saints to win this game they will have to make sure they limit turnovers. Defensively the team will need to limit the effectiveness of the rushing attack and keep pressure on the 49ers’ young quarterback. Offensively the Saints would likely be well served to try and gain an early lead and then let the running game milk the clock as they try and keep the ball out of their opponent’s hands. If the Saints are able to do this, then they should be able to pull out a victory.

Q & A

Q – JB, I'm just wondering what is up with SSW? In past years, I found the newsletter to be well informed and the coverage had some depth to it. This year, you really must be busy with work or something, because the reports are so brief that I get the impression you're doing them out of obligation. This year, it seems to lack the same intensity... I don't know. Just wanted to check and make sure you're okay. – A concerned reader

A – Overall I must admit that the SSW has been shorter recently, due in part to many factors, one of which is time, but another of which is that overall the Saints season is going well & their play in many cases is speaking for itself. However, during the end of the season and the approaching off-season, you will see more of the in-depth articles that readers have grown accustomed to.

Psycho’s View

Overall the Saints season has been a pleasant surprise for many thus far. While their record could be better, the team has done well and in most cases their losses have come by them beating themselves and not being dominated by their opponents. If the Saints can continue to limit their turnovers and not give up the big plays, then they should be able to continue to find success down the stretch and make a strong push for the playoffs. That hope might seem strange to many considering where the Saints were expected to finish in the division, but it is a welcome sight for weary Saints fans.

Super Saints Weekly 226

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 00:56:14 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 226<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

Game Recap

The Saints stumbled this week against the defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers. Overall the Saints played a pretty solid game, but it was the turnovers that ended up hurting them in the end. If the Saints could have limited their turnovers, then the Steelers would have had 14 points less and it would have been the difference in the game. Hopefully they will be able to rebound and eliminate the mistakes before next week.

Player of the Game

This week’s Player of the Game is Drew Brees for his performance. Brees had 398 passing yards with one touchdown and no interceptions. This was a very strong performance for Brees who has quickly proved himself to be one of the elite quarterbacks in the league this year. While his performance wasn’t enough to lead the Saints to victory, Brees did everything he could to try and get the win. Hopefully the Saints will be able to build on Brees’ performance and prepare for next week’s game against the Bengals.

Saints vs. Bengals Game Preview

The Saints will be facing the Bengals this week, in a game that should be highly competitive. <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Cincinnati is coming into this game needing a victory if they are to save their season, while the Saints need this victory to keep pace with the top teams in the NFC. In order for the Saints to beat the Bengals, they will need to limit turnovers so that they don’t give up easy scores. Defensively the Saints will need to keep pressure on Palmer and try to limit the Bengals rushing attack. Offensively the Saints will need to set the tone by running the ball and controlling the clock so they can keep their defense off the field and well rested.

Q & A

Q – There is absolutely no way you can fail to give the coaching staff an A+. Who honestly thought this team would be 6-2 at the midway point of this season? – LSURocks

A – 8-0 would be an A+ grade, at 6-3 they aren’t up to an A+ yet. However, the coaching staff by far has done better than any other in the NFL.

Q – Why isn’t Reggie Bush’s production better, he has not been that productive for a first round pick. Is he just going to be a role player or can he be the real deal? – Walt Crawford

A – Overall teams have really focused on Reggie Bush. That, combined with the fact that Bush is still having to learn the NFL style of running, has slowed him down; however, keep in mind that right now Bush is having more of an impact as a decoy, something that opens up the offense for other options.

Psycho’s View

Overall the Saints have performed solidly thus far this season, with their only true weakness being themselves. The Saints seem to lose only when they turn the ball over multiple times and give their opponents extra points. Besides that, the Saints seem to be maturing well and have a solid core that they can build on over the next few seasons. With the remainder of the Saints schedule a bit easier than the first half, hopefully Saints fans will get a few other wins without as many heart attacks in the process.

Super Saints Weekly 224

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 19:01:55 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 224

Game Recap

The Saints stumbled this week with a loss to the Baltimore Ravens coming out of the bye week. The loss was a real setback, due in large part to the mistakes the team made during the course of the game. The Saints seemed to find a way to give the momentum back to the Ravens every time they seemed to be getting their balance back. Perhaps the second quarter was the Saints Achilles heal, when the Saints turnovers allowed the Ravens to score 21 points and basically force the Saints out of their game plan and also force them to try and play catch up for the remainder of the game. Hopefully the Saints will be able to work the rust off of their offense for next week’s game.

Player of the Game

This week’s Player of the Game is Colston, who had a tremendous game. Stepping in as a rookie to take the starting role that Stallworth once held down, Colston had an amazing performance with 6 catches for 163 yards and 2 touchdowns. Overall Colston was one of the lone bright spots for the Saints, who seemed to find creative ways to give the ball away to their opponents this week. Hopefully the Saints coaching staff will be able to use Colston’s performance to build on this week in preparation for next week’s game.

Saints vs. Bucs Game Preview

The Saints will go into this week’s game needing a division victory. This will be the Saints final match up against the Bucs this season. In order for the Saints to pull out a victory they will need to try and stop the rushing attack of the Bucs and force their young quarterback to stay in the pocket. Offensively the Saints will need to limit turnovers, establish the run, and utilize the play action pass. If the Saints are able to do that then they should have a good chance to pull out a victory. Also, this should be a good week for the Saints special teams finally to start producing more. With Reggie Bush and Michael Lewis now both healthy & able to handle all kick off and punt return duties, the Saints could possibly have one of the stronger special team units in the league.

Q & A

Psycho’s View

This week’s loss was a very disappointing one for the Saints and their fans. Coming into this game the Saints had an excellent shot to win the ball game, but unfortunately they had too many turnovers and didn’t make the most of their opportunities. Overall, things could be worse, but at least the Saints have a few bright spots to build on and if the team is going to suffer those types of turnovers, I feel it is better if they happen in a bundle in the same game instead of over the course of several games. Hopefully the coaching staff will be able to address the concerns that this game caused before the team squares off against the Bucs. While the Saints are a strong team, this game once again shows that the Saints are able to play with just about any team, but to do so they have to play smart football and they can’t beat themselves as they did against the Ravens.

Super Saints Weekly 223

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 01:41:11 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 223

Back off Bush

In recent weeks a trend has began among some in the main stream media involving Reggie Bush. Several members of the media have begun to talk about the lack of “impressive” rushing yards and receiving yards that Bush has put up. While this is still a small percentage of those who are talking about this, it’s still a discussion that those who watch football and know the sport should not be having.

While it is true that Reggie hasn’t had some of the most mind boggling statistics, his impact on the team goes much further than statistics can show. Since his arrival in <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />New Orleans, defensive coordinators around the league have begun focusing their attention on Reggie. By doing so, they have completely changed the methods that they previously would have used to defend the Saints and helped to open up opportunities for other Saints players. You can see numerous examples of his impact by watching game film from any game this season. Several times during the course of the game you will see one or two defenders devoted to spying Bush. A great example of this was against the Falcons when the Saints ran a double reverse in which 4 Falcons were trailing Bush while Henderson ran the other way. This gives the Saints a very useful weapon to game plan into their play calling when facing other teams, which they have been able successfully to exploit so far this season.

Yes, it’s true Reggie has not thrown up the type of statistics that some might like him to see, but when you see how many rushing, receiving, and returning yards per game, then you must admit it is pretty impressive. On top of that when you look at what he has done league wide in forcing others to adjust their schemes and play calling, it is truly amazing. In under half a season, Bush has caused the league to adjust how they play the game and no matter what statistics he puts up, whether those that are amazing or those that seem normal, his impact goes far beyond what you can judge by looking at the statistics.

Game Recap

The Saints continued their winning ways this week by pulling out a victory against a very tough opponent in the Eagles. Going into this week, most people expected the Eagles to come away with a win and the Saints dream start to the season to come to an end, but the Saints once again played spoiler by winning the game. The win gives the Saints their 5th of the season, giving them an impressive record of 5-1. The Saints can now go into this week’s bye week with momentum and the ability to know that when they take the field again against the Ravens in two weeks that they will be defending their first place position in the NFC South. Hopefully the Saints will find the approaching bye week much sweeter as they reflect on their victory against the Eagles and prepare for the Ravens. This bye week should also allow the team some much needed rest as they enjoy the victory.

Saints vs. Ravens Game Preview

The Saints will head into a bye week this week, but then will have to follow up with a game against the Baltimore Ravens. This promises to be a solid match-up against the Ravens, a team that appears to be a contender in the AFC. For the Saints to pull out a victory against the Ravens, they will need to play a smart ball game and limit turnovers over a very stingy defense. Defensively the Saints will need to slow down the rushing attack of the Ravens so that they can force McNair and the Ravens into being one dimensional so that they can send their blitz early and often. If the Saints are able to do this then they should be able to find success and pull out another victory on the season.

Player of the Game

This week’s Player of the Game award goes to two players for their efforts in the Saints win, one on offense, one defense. On offense Joe Horn gets the award for his six catches for 110 yard performance with two touch downs. Defensively linebacker Scott Fujita gets the award for his impressive performance with 8 tackles and one interception. Fujita seemed to be the spark plug yet again for the Saints defense, coming up with several big plays during the course of the game. Overall these two couldn’t have picked a better game to step up, since this could turn out to be a key victory down the stretch as potential playoff position is decided.

Q & A

Q – JB, when do you think we will see the return of Michael Lewis to the field? – Aaron; Lufkin, TX

A – Aaron, I would say that if the Saints decide to keep Lewis, his return would have to be shortly. I’d say the bye week will play a crucial role in the Saints deciding the “Beer Man’s” future with the team.

Psycho’s View

I’d like to begin this week by first announcing that they won’t be a SSW next week. With the Saints going into the bye week, it is time for a much needed rest; however, we will return the following week. With that out of the way I would like to say that overall I like the Saints standings going into a bye and I believe it couldn’t have come at a better time. This bye also gives the Saints plenty of time and rest to get ready for the Ravens, which should benefit the team greatly. It also should give Payton and his staff plenty of time to get things together and prepare a few surprises for the Ravens, which they have been excellent at doing so far. With almost half the season behind them, it looks to be an exciting time to be a Saints fan with hopefully only more good things to come.

Super Saints Weekly 222

Tue, 10 Oct 2006 01:05:29 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 222

Game Recap

The Saints managed to rebound this week from last week’s loss by getting a victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The victory gives the Saints their second win in the Super Dome since its reopening and helps to build up some more momentum heading into next week’s game. Overall it seemed that the Saints might have underestimated <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Tampa Bay, but after a slow start, the team figured out ways to make the big plays when needed to pull out a victory. Hopefully, the team will be able to look at the game tape and make adjustments to the areas that they struggled. If so, then this team could be rapidly announcing to the NFL that they are the real deal and at 4-1, the Saints are in the driver’s seat in the NFC South.

Player of the Game

This weeks Player of the Game award could go to a handful of players; however, considering the game breaker play that gave the Saints back momentum and turned out to be the winning score, I’ve decided to give it to Reggie Bush. Bush had a very solid performance today with 161 all purpose yards. Perhaps the biggest play he had was the 65 yard punt return for the game winning touchdown. This was Bush’s first touchdown in the NFL and what makes him worthy of this weeks Player of the Game.

Saints vs. Eagles Game Preview

The Saints will be facing the Philadelphia Eagles this week in what looks to be a very good match-up between two very good teams. The Saints go into the game with a lot of momentum after their win against the Bucs. Perhaps something good for the Saints to look forward to is that the Eagles will be matching up against them after a very emotional game for that team. In order to pull out a victory against the Eagles, the Saints will need to control Donavan McNabb and contain Brian Westbrook. Perhaps the Eagles best weapon is Westbrook and if the Saints can limit his effectiveness on the field, then they should be able to perform well against the Eagles. Offensively the Saints will need to limit turnovers and dropped passes while trying to have a balanced attack against the Eagles defense. If they are able to do so and take advantage of the opportunities they get by turning them into touchdowns instead of field goals, then this could turn out to be a solid victory for the Saints.

Q & A

Q – What's the status of Michael Lewis, the return game could sure use him? – Walt Crawford

A – Lewis is still trying to come back off his injury, but even if healthy he wouldn’t be able to return until after week 6. If he is able to come back healthy, then he could be a dangerous weapon to line up along side Reggie Bush on kickoffs and force teams to pick their poison.

Psycho’s View

The Saints rebounded this week to pull out yet another victory and continue to give Saints fans a reason to cheer. This has been a very solid season for the Saints and their fans and one that hopefully will continue to provide bright spots for the Saints. Overall this season seems to be developing about how I expected, with the exception of a few surprise rookie performances that seem to have come out of nowhere and proven their worth. If the Saints are able to continue this trend, then not only will it help to continue and uplift a city that needs it and their fans, but it should provide football fans in general a solid football team worth watching. This should continue if the Saints simply continue to execute and work on the details.

Super Saints Weekly 221

Tue, 03 Oct 2006 02:38:13 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 221

Game Recap

The Saints suffered their first loss of the season this week against the Panthers. Overall, while the loss is disappointing, it still gives the team something to build on. It was obvious that the Saints were not hitting on all cylinders in the first half, yet they managed to stick around and make a game out of it. The loss drops the Saints to 3-1 with several key games still on the schedule. While the Saints will likely not be happy about losing, they did have a lot of bright spots in today’s game, which they should be able to build on while watching game footage this week to prepare for the Bucs.

Player of the Game

This week’s Player of the Game award is a tough call considering that a couple of offensive players put up key stats. However, after debating this choice, we have decided to give it to Marques Colston, who even with a loss had an amazing game. With 5 catches for 132 yards and a touchdown, Colston did all he could to help the Saints pull out avictory. While the Saints will likely feel the sting of this loss all week, at least they have a few players like Colston whom they can point to and say how impressively he played. With Colston’s size, it appears that Brees has found his new go to player. With that in mind, expect to see this just being one of many impressive games that he will have this year.

Saints vs. Bucs Game Preview

The Saints will face the Tampa Bay Bucs this week in yet another heated divisional rivalry game. However, with the Bucs seeming to be having a very poor start this season and the team looking to a rookie quarterback, the chances of victory for the Saints seem high. However, for the Saints to win this game, they will need to be effective on offense and limit turnovers. On defense the Saints will need to mix up their blitz packages and try to confuse the young quarterback. Also, stopping the run will be key for the Saints since the Bucs have a young quarterback they will likely try to take some of the pressure off by running the ball more. If the Saints are able to stop this, they should be able to control the game and pickup up not only a victory, but also they will likely force some turnovers if that turns out to be the case.

Q & A

(This week due to some extensive traveling that I had to do and the inability to check my email until late in the week, the questions for this section won’t be published and answered until this coming week’s issue. However, don’t be alarmed, the Q & A section isn’t being removed, just temporarily postponed.)

Psycho’s View

The Saints loss this week was very disappointing considering this was a game that they obviously should have and could have won. However, I must admit that the bright lining in this game is that even when the Saints have lost this year, they have still looked more impressive than several teams around the league. Overall the Saints have been playing solid football and I expect them to rebound quickly from this loss. Hopefully they will be able to make the needed adjustments and help crank up the scoring a bit.

Super Saints Weekly 220

Wed, 27 Sep 2006 03:28:28 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 220

Saints vs. Falcons Game Recap

The Saints managed to pull out what many so called experts thought was impossible, a victory over the favored Atlanta Falcons. However, it wasn’t just any victory, it was a message to the NFL that the Saints are not only for real, but are a contender. With young blood from the new Payton era leading the way, the Saints came out with a high level of excitement and didn’t let up through the entire game. <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Atlanta seemed unable to stop the Saints offensive weapons who controlled the tempo of the game while the Saints defense did what many thought was impossible, stop the Atlanta rushing attack. It was obvious from the first play that the Saints coaching staff was prepared for this game and had an excellent plan on how to stop the Falcons on both sides of the ball. With this victory the Saints are now 3-0 and lead the NFL South. Hopefully the team will be able to continue to build on what they have started as they go into next week.

Player of the Game

This week in a game so big it is only fitting that the Player of the Game be a bit bigger than usual also. With that in mind, this week’s Player of the Game is shared between the Saints defense and special teams that played vital roles in the team’s victory. The defense helped to shut down the Atlanta rushing attack while constantly harassing Vick and never allowing him to get comfortable. In doing this, the defense was able to hold the Falcons to three points and never allowed the Falcons to get into rhythm. On the other hand, the Saints special teams was truly that tonight, blocking a punt and returning it for a touchdown along with blocking a field goal. Both the Saints special team members and defensive unit helped to set the tone for the game and never allowed Atlanta even to sniff a comeback.

Q & A

Q – The offensive line play seems a little suspect, the Packers don't have that great a defense and they took the Saints apart in the 1st quarter. What's the chance of a trade for someone? I agree with your call on Mike Haas, I saw him before the KC game and he caught everything threw his way in game warm ups and then they did not play him. I would have thought that he would have at least made the practice squad. – Walt Crawford

A – Overall Walt, I wouldn’t worry about the offensive line. Against Atlanta they looked much improved and while they are performing well with the exception of a lapse early against Green Bay; they are still very young. As far as Mike Hass goes, the Bears gobbled him up, which I expected a team to do, and I still expect great things for him. Unfortunately it just won’t be for the Saints.

Q – Hey JB, once again I must say that I truly love reading your updates about the Saints. I have 2 questions, the first one is; are the Saints still interested in Donnie Edwards since the Charges could use a receiver, and the Saints have a few they could give up? Also, how is Deuce really doing? He looks to be a little tentative in hitting the hole. Is that some rust from the injury, or is he just a little scared to hit the hole full speed? Thanks – Maurice

A – Overall I believe the Donnie Edwards value is dropping. With the Chargers losing a linebacker early due to a shooting and the Saints linebackers performing very well, I don’t see the Saints offering any more than what they did before the start of the season. Overall I believe this was a bad move for the Chargers considering that they could have gotten some good value for a player they wanted to unload. As far as Deuce goes, usually his type of injury takes one year of healing and it isn’t until the second year that the player really feels like his old self. However, having Bush around should help to continue to speed the healing process.

Psycho’s View

The Saints continued their winning ways this week with an impressive victory against the Falcons. Overall the Saints have come out swinging and appear not to be intimidated by any opponent. Unlike in years past, the Saints appear to finally have installed a winning attitude. That, combined with the fact that the Saints are beating the opponents they are supposed to and playing tough against the stronger teams, leaves Saints fans with true hope for the season. If things continue like this, then this should be a very fun and interesting season for the Saints and their fans.

Super Saints Weekly 219

Sun, 17 Sep 2006 22:14:34 GMT

Super Saints Weekly 219

Packers vs. Saints Game Recap

The Saints continued their winning ways this week under Payton with a victory against the Green Bay Packers. The Saints seemed to play a pretty balanced game this week providing plays on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. While they were playing against a much less talented team in the Packers, the Saints broke a trend that they used to do in the past, play down to the level of their opponent. The victory gives the Saints a very strong start to the season and while they might raise an extra eyebrow or two with their strong start, they likely will be able to continue to fly under the radar at least for another week or two. Once again congratulations to the Saints for their strong victory this week and their impressive 2-0 start to begin the season.

Player of the Game

This week’s Player of the Game is Drew Brees. Helping lead his team to a second straight victory to start the year, Brees seemed to be one of the more vital components of the team. Brees finished the game with 354 yards passing and two touchdowns, for a very solid performance. While a few players could have been considered for this week’s honor, Brees seemed the most worthy and helps give the Saints a strong start to the season under the Payton/Brees/Bush era.

Q & A

Q – JB, do you believe that the Saints are truly utilizing Reggie Bush or should he be rushing the ball more instead? – Brandy; <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Baton Rouge, La

A – Overall you don’t want Bush strictly to be a runner because you really limit his abilities. He is better as a pass receiver and running back instead of strictly using him as a runner. By using him as a dual threat, the Saints utilize Bush’s ability which helps to show off his explosiveness. Basically the more options the Saints use Bush for the better he has of making a game breaking play.

Falcons vs. Saints Game Preview

The Saints will open off division play this coming week with a Monday night game against the Falcons. While this is always a heated rivalry, the fact that it’s the Saints first game back in the Super Dome should provide a little more emotion this week in possibly one of the biggest games the Saints will have played in recent years. In order to pull out a victory against the Falcons, the Saints will need to do several things on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Offensively the Saints will need to continue to mix things up and limit turnovers while protecting Brees. Defensively, the two keys to the Saints winning will be limiting rushing yards so that Vick is forced to pass and minimizing his scrambling ability. If the Saints are able to do this, then they should be able to pull a victory out against the Falcons and give them a chance to continue to build momentum for this season.

Psycho’s View

Overall I must admit that I am extremely excited with the Saints quick starts out of the gate. While I believe offensively the Saints could improve some things and get the ball in the end zone a bit more consistently, I must admit that you are starting to see some of the rust working off of some of the players. Defensively the Saints have been pretty impressive and appear actually to make adjustments as the game progressed, unlike they used to in previous seasons under the former coaching staff. On defense they should continue to improveas the players continue to gel and adjust to one another.