SB Nation - Pierre Thomas

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints: Game Preview

Saintsational — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 12:00:30 -0000

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (2-12) AT NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (13-1)

SERIES

	BUCCANEERS	SAINTS
SERIES LEADER		21-14
STREAKS	3 of past 5	2 of past 3
COACHES VS. OPP.	Morris: 0-1	Payton: 4-3
LAST WEEK	W 24-7 at Seahawks	L 24-17 vs. Cowboys
LAST GAME	11/22/09: Saints 38 at Buccaneers 7. New Orleans QB Drew Brees throws for 3 TDs, including 2 in 1st half to WR Robert Meachem, as Saints win franchise-record 10th straight.
LAST GAME AT SITE	9/7/08: Saints 24, Buccaneers 20. Brees throws for 343 yards & 3 TDs, including game-winning 42-yarder to RB Reggie Bush in 4th quarter.
BROADCAST	FOX (12:00 PM CT): Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, Tony Siragusa (Field reporter). SIRIUS: 158 (TB), 125 (NO). XM: 102 (NO).

STATS

PASSING	Freeman (R): 122-228-1,412-9-14-60.1	Brees: 331-477-4,130 (1C)-33 (T1L)-11-109.4 (1L)
RUSHING	Williams: 167-652-3.9-3	P. Thomas: 141-733-5.2-5
RECEIVING	Winslow (TE): 68-752-11.1-5	Colston: 61-994-16.3-9
OFFENSE	282.5	419.6 (1L)
TAKE/GIVE	-5	+13 (3L)
DEFENSE	362.8	354.1
SACKS	S. White: 6.5	Smith: 12 (3L)
INTs	Talib: 5	Sharper: 8 (T1C)
PUNTING	Paulescu: 45.0	Morstead (R): 43.3
KICKING	Barth: 42 (9/9 PAT; 11/16 FG)	Hartley: 28 (7/8 PAT; 7/8 FG)

NOTES

BUCCANEERS: Rookie QB JOSH FREEMAN passed for 2 TDs & rushed for 2 pt. conversion last week. Had 95.8 rating last week, 2nd highest of career...RB CADILLAC WILLIAMS had 22-yard rec. TD last week. Had 88 scrimmage yards on 13 touches last week for 6.8-yard avg. Has 3 rush TDs in past 3 meetings. WR DERRICK WARD had rec. TD last week. Had season-high 67 rush yards...TE KELLEN WINSLOW had team-high 6 catches & 93 yards last week. Has 68 receptions, most by TE in team history. Since 2006, Winslow ranks 3rd among TEs with 282 catches. WR ANTONIO BRYANT has 2 TDs in past 4 vs. NO & averages 43.5 yards per TD... CB RONDE BARBER has posted 3 INTs in game 2 times, both vs. NO. Is only player in NFL history with 25+ sacks (25) & 35+ INTs (37). S TANARD JACKSON had INT last week & has set career-highs this season with 4 INTs & 2 INT-TDs. LB GENO HAYES had sack, FR & INT last week. Aims for 3rd in row with INT...

SAINTS: Can clinch No. 1 seed in NFC with win...Lead NFL with 34.5 scoring avg...QB DREW BREES has completed 61 of 88 (69.3 pct.) for 693 yards with 6 TDs vs. 1 INT for 110.7 rating in past 3 at home vs. TB. Has 121.4 rating at home this year with 2,224 yards (317.7 per game), 19 TDs & 4 INTs. Has passed for 4,000+ yards (4,130) in 4 consecutive seasons...RB REGGIE BUSH had 8 catches for 112 yards & TD (42 yards) in last home meeting. RB PIERRE THOMAS rushed 11 times for 92 yards (8.4 avg.) in last meeting. RB MIKE BELL tied career-high with 2 rush TDs in last game vs. TB...WR MARQUES COLSTON has 11 rec. TDs in past 11 Dec. games. WR ROBERT MEACHEM had career-high 2 rec. TDs in last meeting. WR DEVERY HENDERSON has 5 rec. TDs vs. TB & averages 50 yards per TD. TE DAVID THOMAS had career-high 8 catches (77 yards) last week. Had TD catch in last meeting...LB JONATHAN VILMA has INT, 2 FFs & FR in past 2 meetings. Has INT in 3 of past 5. DE WILL SMITH has 9.5 sacks in past 8. S DARREN SHARPER has 57 INTs, 1,309 yards & 9 INT-TDs since 2000, most in NFL.

New Orleans Saints' Offensive Player Grades vs. Cowboys

saints-nation — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 18:00:16 -0000

by Bill Haber - AP

5 days ago: New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod sits on the bench in the closing minutes of the Saints 24 - 17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)

View full size photo »

Needless to say, these are a lot more fun to do after a win. If you're still feeling bad, though, consider that you didn't have to sit through re-watching the first three quarters of that game. Quite frankly the Saints deserved to lose that game.

Cowboys vs Saints boxscore

Cowboys vs Saints coverage

Cowboys vs Saints recap

Drew Brees: C- (3.17) It wasn't all on him, but Brees just didn't play that well. Granted, while he fumbled twice he was under constant pressure all day long. If not for his pocket presence and awareness he would have been sacked way more than 4 times. His interception was just a bad read and an even worse throw. He did not do a good job of making throws on third down. A subpar game for the Saints' superstar, and his MVP push may have taken a hit. He made some nice throws late on the rally, but the Saints were in too big of a hole to climb out. He finished 29-45 for 298 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception. He rushed twice for 8 yards, lost two fumbles, and caught a batted pass of his before getting tackled for a 4 yard loss.

Reggie Bush: B- (2.61) Hard to give him a full grade because he left with an injury and didn't return. Too bad, he was playing pretty well before he left. His one run was a beautiful 29 yard sprint down the left sideline. He also caught 2 passes for 17 yards, one of which had significant real estate if he hadn't come up gimpy. Give him credit also for running forward on his lone punt return. Ultimately, he didn't see enough action to make a difference.

Mike Bell: C+ (2.73) Bell never really got a chance to get going. He was stuffed on his first attempt. He had a couple of nice runs early in the 4th quarter, including a touchdown run, but he finished with just 8 yards on 4 carries. Not enough opportunity.

Pierre Thomas: C+ (3.05) Thomas was unusually quiet, other than a screen pass he took for 29 yards late. He never really got going in the running game, and the Saints abandoned it to catch up. He did a decent job as a security valve in the passing game. He had just 20 yards on 6 carries, and 50 yards on 5 receptions.

Marques Colston: B (2.95) Colston, to me, didn't seem to get that open. He has great hands and a nice frame to make some impressive grabs, but I felt like he never got much separation from the Dallas defense. Fortunately, Brees went to him in tight windows and it seemed to work. He finished with a pretty decent game, 5 catches for 86 yards.

Lance Moore: B- (2.54) Again, hard to grade him because Brees never really looked his way and he didn't play all that much. He filled in on punt return duties when Bush left, and got hit hard on one where he should have called for a fair catch. Moore did get a touchdown on a screen pass, though, which also included nice blocking by Meachem and Colston. That was his lone catch, but it gave the Superdome new life as it brought the game within striking distance.

Devery Henderson: D+ (2.83) Henderson was covered by Mike Jenkins all night like a blanket. On the interception, Jenkins was step for step with him. There were several other plays where Brees would try to get Henderson involved and he was just not open. On a terribly underthrown ball by Brees in the end zone at one point, Henderson was covered but did a nice job adjusting to the pass. Unfortunately on that play, he dropped an easy touchdown catch. Devery Henderson and "drops" have been becoming all too synonymous lately. He finished with just 2 catches for 22 yards, but did a good job of breaking a tackle and getting out of bounds late to at least give the Saints a chance.

Robert Meachem: B- (3.17) 5 catches for 43 yards in the game. Nothing great, nothing terrible.

David Thomas: A- (2.47) Thomas was by far the most used weapon in the passing game. He stepped in for an injured Shockey and did a great job of showing soft hands and ability after the catch. He finished with an impressive 8 catches for 77 yards. Good thing I picked him up and started him in my fantasy league right as I heard Shockey was out for the game. Thomas also threw two monster lead blocks for Mike Bell on the first touchdown drive, and he also sprung the Reggie Bush run free with a nice seal. Shockey is a big part of what the Saints do, but I can't really say there was any dropoff with Thomas in the game.

Jermon Bushrod: D- (2.54) I long considered giving him my second F of the season. He definitely deserves an F for his play, but I think Bushrod shows effort and he at least threw a beautiful block on Bush's run. In pass protection, he was a disaster. Dallas finished with 4 sacks, all coming from the left side. One of those was on Pierre Thomas, but the fact that Anthony Spencer went twice to hit Brees untouched was inexcusable. Anytime DeMarcus Ware was in the game, he beat Bushrod like a red headed step child. If it wasn't for Brees' pocket awareness, Bushrod would have been responsible for many more atrocious offensive plays. As the NFL Network crew pointed out, his footwork and balance were terrible. Maybe it's time to give Zach Strief another go. Whether it was using speed, power, or anything at all, Ware made Bushrod look like he was out of high school. Embarassing performance by the left tackle.

Carl Nicks: C (3.03) Nicks just didn't get it done. He didn't help Bushrod, he didn't get his usual push in the running game, and his pass protection was nothing special. Granted, he never really got a chance to show what he could do in either situation because the Saints hardly ran the ball and Bushrod was getting beat much faster than anyone else on the line.

Jonathan Goodwin: B (3.17) Goodwin showed nice toughness bouncing back from an injury and he played overall pretty well. He made most of his assignments, created running lanes, and did a good job of letting Brees step up in the pocket with constant outside pressure.

Jahri Evans: C+ (3.24) Evans had a holding penalty and he didn't have his best game in pass protection. At times he manhandled his man, but at others his play was average. Overall the whole line deserves criticism for the poor job running the ball and the horrendous job protecting Brees.

Jon Stinchcomb: C (2.81) Stinchcomb was fortunate to get an illegal contact call on the Cowboys on the same play that he was completely beat and allowed his man to sack Brees within about a second of the ball getting snapped. I'm not sure Stinchcomb even laid a finger on the defender on that play. He was beaten around the edge several times, but he was bailed out often by Brees' feet and/or Bushrod's superior awfulness.

My Offensive Player of the Game: David Thomas

Poll

Who Was Your Offensive Player of the Game?

Cowboys @ Saints Injury Update

Aaron Novinger — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:04:05 -0000

DeMarcus Ware's status for tomorrow night's game against the Saints is still uncertain. He looks like a game-time decision. Both he and FS Ken Hamlin are listed as questionable.

Jerry Jones on Ware:

"The good news is that, aside from his soreness, he certainly does physically have the ability to play," Jones said. "We'll just determine that as to how he’s feeling at game time."

Wade Phillips had hoped that Ware's status would be determine before the Cowboys left for New Orleans. That didn't happen. Ware is listed as questionable for Saturday night's game against the Saints.

Make the jump for the rest of the injury report.

DC.com on Hamlin:

Hamlin had limited participation all week in his return from a high ankle sprain. Though questionable, head coach Wade Phillips has seemed confident Hamlin would play for the first time since Nov. 15. Alan Ball has been starting in his place.

Strong safety and the Cowboys' leader in special teams tackles, Pat Watkins, is out with his sprained knee. He is not expected to be back during the regular season.

FB Deon Anderson, probable, did not go at today's walkthrough practice due to illness, but he is expected to play.

TE Martellus Bennett (concussion) has returned to practicing a full basis, but is not eligible to play until next week. He will be out against the Saints.

CB Terence Newman (knee) and SS Gerald Sensabaugh (thumb) are also still listed on the injury report, but are fine and will continue to start.

As for the Saints' injuries:

DT Sedrick Ellis (knee) looks like a game-time decision for now; he has missed two days of practice this week.

CB Jabari Greer (groin) will be out.

K Garrett Hartley (hip), OT Jon Stinchcomb (knee), TE Jeremy Shockey (toe), and DE Bobby McCrary (back) all returned to practice yesterday and are expected to assume their normal roles.

Here are the rest of their injured:

Receiver Lance Moore (ankle, hamstring) and tailback Mike Bell (knee) practiced fully.

Ten other players were limited -- tailback Pierre Thomas (hip), guard Jahri Evans (foot), guard Carl Nicks (back), offensive tackle Jermon Bushrod (thumb), center Jonathan Goodwin (ankle), cornerback Tracy Porter (knee), safety Usama Young (hip), linebacker Jonathan Vilma (knee), linebacker Scott Fujita (knee) and linebacker Marvin Mitchell (hamstring).

Cowboys @ Saints: 5 Questions With Canal Street Chronicles

Dave Halprin — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 21:34:16 -0000

We took a little time to chat with Saintsational over at Canal Street Chronicles to get his take on the upcoming game and the Saints perfect season. Enjoy!

1. Do you think the Saints will make it to 16-0? If you wrap up the #1 seed in the NFC, do you want the Saints to rest players for the playoffs or take a shot at the perfect season?

Honestly, the answer to your first question will be more clear after Saturday night's game. The Cowboys represent, in my opinion, the final true hurdle in the race for perfection. The Saints final two games are against significantly weaker opponents, Tampa Bay and Carolina, and they should have a fairly easy time winning. As a fan, I think they can do it. After this season, I think they can do anything.

As far as the debate over sitting or playing starters, head coach Sean Payton, Drew Brees and other Saints have already said they won't take their foot off the accelerator and want to go for it. Payton has also said that it will ultimately be up to the players to make the decision. Let's face it, this is the Saints we're talking about and this opportunity may not arrive for another 43 years. You can't leave the chance for history on the table.

2. The Saints have had some great escapes recently. Is there a sense that the team is not playing as well as they were earlier in the year? Obviously you're still winning, but are cracks starting to show?

This is a great question and actually a predominant thought in my mind recently. Let's face it, the Saints have not been winning in the same convincing fashion they were earlier this season. I can't help but feel like I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop and that, eventually, this magic carpet ride is going to end.

The offense is still kicking butt and taking names; the issue is not on that side of the ball. But the defense is starting to fade. Much of that I think is due to missing starting cornerbacks Tracy Porter and Jabari Greer. Opposing offenses have been able to gain big yardage on long passing plays, much like we saw in recent years past. Saints fans are hopeful that the return of Porter and Greer will signal a return to shut down defense.

Of course, the wear and tear of the season is probably taking its toll as well.

3. The opposing teams that came closest to winning - what did they do to 'almost win'? Which is the more likely way of beating the Saints, slowing down the offense, or taking your chances in shootout?

I get this question every week and I answer it the same way each time: Bring pressure early, often and always. Teams have got to bring constant pressure on Drew Brees from all different angles using different looks. Confuse the hell out of him and always keep your hands up at the line attempting to bat down balls. And lastly, do it for the full sixty minutes. Don't ever quit or the Saints will claw back.

The best way to beat the Saints is definitely to try and shut down the offense. The Saints will be able to keep up if the Cowboys focus on offense and want to get into a shootout. Even on a bad day, the Saints will still probably put up more than twenty points, so Dallas will need to shut down the Saints offense as well as put up a decent number on offense.

4. With the multitude of offensive weapons on your side, who is the one guy you'd advise the opposing defense stops to beat New Orleans (besides Brees)?

If I had to give an answer to this question I would probably say Pierre Thomas. He is a threat on the ground as well as a receiver coming out of the backfield. Mike Bell will probably not play on Saturday or at least be limited, meaning Thomas should get most of the work. Shutting down Pierre will essentially shut down the Saints rushing offense. Of course, that still leaves Reggie Bush in the mix and though not as consistent, he can be incredibly dangerous. Unfortunately, there is a good chance that Payton wouldn't stick with Bush even if he was playing well.

My real answer, though, is that it doesn't matter. Dallas can pick two players to isolate and focus on and it still won't do them any good. If the Saints can't run, they will just let Drew take over. If Dallas tries to double team any one receiver, there will be three others than are just as talented and just as dangerous. Drew spreads the ball around too much, causing headaches for defensive game plans.

5. The Saints defense gives up a lot of yards, but makes up for it with turnovers. Do you worry that the turnovers could dry up and the defense starts losing games?

Who needs the defense to cause turnovers when you've got talented wide receivers like Robert Meachem stripping balls and scoring touchdowns? Seriously though, it's definitely a worry. They've already started to dry up a bit. Sharper has been quiet lately and starting cornerbacks Tracy Porter and Jabari Greer are both out with injuries.

Yet, even last week, they somehow managed to pull off a perfectly timed turnover at the end of the game to seal it. This season has defied logic so many times in so many ways. With a little magic and a touch of luck on the side of the Saints this year, I firmly believe it may never end.

Dallas Cowboys @ New Orleans Saints: Game Preview

Saintsational — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:00:45 -0000

DALLAS COWBOYS (8-5) AT NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (13-0)

SERIES

	COWBOYS	SAINTS
SERIES LEADER	14-8
STREAKS		Past 5
COACHES VS. OPP.	Phillips: 1-1	Payton: 1-0
LAST WEEK	L 20-17 vs. Chargers	W 26-23 at Falcons
LAST GAME	12/10/06: Saints 42 at Cowboys 17. New Orleans QB Drew Brees passes for 384 yards & 5 TDs as Saints tally 536 yards of offense in road win vs. Cowboys.
LAST GAME AT SITE	12/28/03: Saints 13, Cowboys 7. New Orleans WR Donte' Stallworth catches 76-yard TD pass & K John Carney adds 2 FGs as New Orleans defeats Dallas in 2003 season finale.
BROADCAST	NFLN (7:20 PM CT): Bob Papa, Matt Millen. Westwood One Radio: Howard David, Randy Cross, Kevin Kiley (Field reporter). SIRIUS: 124 (WW1), 126 (Dal.), 125 (NO). XM: 124 (WW1), 103 (Dal.), 102 (NO).

STATS

PASSING	Romo: 276-444-3,574 (3C)-22-7-97.4	Brees: 302-432-3,832 (1C)-32 (1L)-10-112.3 (1L)
RUSHING	Barber: 166-716-4.3-4	P. Thomas: 135-713-5.3-5
RECEIVING	Witten (TE): 77 (3C)-793-10.3-1	Colston: 56-908-16.2-9
OFFENSE	391.1 (3L)	426.1 (1L)
TAKE/GIVE	-1	+16 (2L)
DEFENSE	329.4	347.6
SACKS	Ware: 9	Smith: 10
INTs	Jenkins: 4	Sharper: 8 (T1C)
PUNTING	McBriar: 44.9	Morstead (R): 42.7
KICKING	Folk: 84 (33/33 PAT: 17/26 FG)	Carney: 89 (50/52 PAT; 13/17 FG)

NOTES

COWBOYS: QB TONY ROMO aims for 4th in row with 100+ rating. Has 7 TDs, 0 INTs & 114.3 rating in past 3. Team is 24-5 (.828) when he starts & has 100+ rating...RB MARION BARBER has 35 rush TDs since 2006, 2nd most in NFC. RB-KR FELIX JONES averages 42.5 yards per TD in career...WR MILES AUSTIN ties for NFL lead with 7 rec. TDs of 20+ yards. Has 999 yards, 17.2 avg. & 10 rec. TDs & can become 1st Cowboy since 1979 (TONY HILL) with 1,000+ yards, 17+ avg. & 10+ rec. TDs. TE JASON WITTEN has 254 receptions & 2,890 yards since 2007, both 2nd most among NFL TEs. WR ROY WILLIAMS had 4 catches for 111 yards (27.8 avg.) in only meeting (12/24/05 with Det.)...LB DE MARCUS WARE has 43 sacks since 2007, most in NFL. Has 9 sacks in past 9. Had sack in last meeting. CB TERENCE NEWMAN had INT last week...

SAINTS: Are 13-0 for 1st time in team history. Lead NFL with 35.8 scoring avg. Head coach SEAN PAYTON was asst. with Dal. from 2003-05...QB DREW BREEScompleted 26 of 38 (68.4 pct.) for 384 yards with 5 TDs vs. 0 INTs for 140.8 rating in last meeting. Is 6-0 at home with 131 rating, completing 136 of 187 (72.7 pct.) for 1,926 yards (321 per game) with 18 TDs vs. 3 INTs. Needs 168 yards for 4th consecutive 4,000-yard season...RB REGGIE BUSH had 6 catches for 125 yards (20.8 avg.) & TD in last meeting. Had 2 rec. TDs last week. RB PIERRE THOMAS has 4 TDs (2 rush, 2 rec.) in past 3 at home...WR MARQUES COLSTON has 11 rec. TDs in past 10 Dec. games. WR ROBERT MEACHEM has TD in 5 of past 6 (7 TDs). In last meeting, WR DEVERY HENDERSON had catches of 50 & 42 (TD) yards...DE WILL SMITH has 3 sacks & FF in 2 meetings. Aims for 3rd in row vs. Dal. with sack. Has 7.5 sacks in past 7. S DARREN SHARPER has 57 INTs, 1,309 yards & 9 INT-TDs since 2000, most in NFL.

Saints @ Redskins: Prediction Results and Voting

Saintsational — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 19:00:19 -0000

Before we get to the prediction results from the most recent Saints game against the Falcons this Sunday, we need to vote for last weeks winner from the Washington game. So here they are.

Nobody got all three of their predictions right and we didn't have anyone correctly guess the score so it looks like it might come down to score predictions.

Begin voting now. Prediction results and voting for Sunday's game will be later today.

*CSC Member*	*Predictions*	*Analysis*
GobBluth	Brees throws 2+ TDs Colston and Meachem 1+ TDs each Saints D has a TD	Yes Yes No *Score Prediction: Saints 45-17*
nanvinnie	1) Shockey 1+ TD 2) Defense 2+ TOs 3) Payton No Challenges	No Yes Yes *Score Prediction:* Saints 41-13
whodatone	1. Brees with at least two TD passes. 2. Shockey gets at least one TD. 3. Sharper has no Int.	Yes No Yes *Score Prediction:* Saints 31-27
arcuate	Saints outgain Redskins in rushing yards. Meachem scores at least one TD. Saints D makes 2+ turnovers.	No Yes Yes *Score Prediction:* Saints 35-6
Cajun in CA	1. Skins score 1st. 2. Saints have only 1 turnover. 3. Brees gets to watch the end of the game from the bench.	Yes Yes No *Score Prediction:* Saints 31-9
Nate W	1) Redskins rush for under 100 yards 2) Saints 2 or more sacks 3) Devin Thomas 5 or more catches	Yes No Yes *Score Prediction:* Saints 31-6
cck781	1. Brees 2+ td passes but under 300 yds. passing 2. PT and Bell both score a TD 3. Defense 3+ turnovers	No No No
saints-nation	1. Saints score first 2. Saints up by double digits at halftime 3. Pierre Thomas with at least 100yds rushing and at least 1 TD	No No No
Alex Saints	Colston gets in the endzone David Thomas gets his 2nd TD Brees QB rating 30+ pts higher than Campbells	Yes No No
xen-cuts	1. Brees has 3x+ TDs 2. Meach has 1x TD 3. Shockey has 1x TD	No Yes No
MtnExile	1. The Saints have no problem running on the Redskins, getting over 100 yards. 2. Drew has an off day, throwing for only 2 TDs and an interception. 3. Darren Sharper returns an INT for a TD.	No Yes No
andyp111	Drew Brees has 3TDs Reggie Bush has a rushing and recieving TD Saints are +3 in the turnover battle	No No Yes
sernycrusher	1. pt bruiser goes over 100 yards 2. shockey get a td 3. harper leads team in tackles	No No No
Ponysaints	1. Brees has at least 2 TD’s. 2. PT gets at least 2 TD’s. 3. Brunell gets to play in the 4th Qtr.	Yes No No
CoastRebel	1. Brees 2 TDs+ 2. Saints D 2 INTs+ 3. Kickoff/punt return for a TD	Yes No No
lonBlitz	1. Brees with 1 TD 2. Bell with two rushing TDs 3. Sharper with 1 INT	No No No
viper4dx	1.Brees 2 TD,1 INT 200+ yards 2. Saints total 150+ yards rushing,2 TD 3. Saints D wins TO battle,also scores on Pick 6.	Yes No No
Steve the fan	1. Roby has a kick return TD. 2. Dave Thomas gets a TD. 3. Jenkins has an INT.	No No No
TigerPaw	1. Brees gets picked twice 2. Campbell gets sacked at least 3 times 3. Saints rushing game held below 100 yards	No No Yes
satchmo26	1. Carney misses a FG attempt, which causes Who Dat Nation to lose all confidence in him and demand Hartley. 2. Brees throws for less than 300 yards and less than 2 TDs, mostly because he won’t have to. 3. Saints D scores on a turnover.	No No No
mississippisaintsfan	1.We have our first shut out of the year 2.Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell both score on runs 3.No missed field goals by our kicker this week (which ever one gets the nod)	No No No
FLDune Patrol	1. Washington sacks Brees 3+ 2. Shockey has TD 3. Sharper gets interception and yardage record	No No No
Ace Venom	1) We shut out the Redskins 2) Carney misses a field goal attempt. 3) Brees completes two TD passes	No No Yes
bondcrash	1) Hartley is the only active kicker for the game 2) We punt 4+ times 3) Pierre Thomas has 100+ alll purpose yards	Yes No No
saint-sly	Brees gets 3+ TD passes Colston gets 2 TD’s Smith gets 2 sacks	No No No
bowlbound09	Brees 2+td’s, 1 INT Campbell 1+td’s, 2 INT Pierre Thomas will have big game	Yes No No
Grok Rocker	1. Brees has 3+ TD’s 2. Pierre Thomas has 75+yards and 1+ TD 3. 20th player gets a TD to get closer to NFL record	No No No
themarsist	1. Sharper gets a pick 6 2. Mike Bell has 100+ yards and TD 3. Brees throws two TDs	No No Yes
saintfever09	1. Jason Campbell throws 2+ picks. 2. Brees has 300+ yards and 3+ touchdowns. 3. Will Smith will have at least 1 sack	No No No
Baggs5	1. Brees doesn’t play all 4 quarters 2. Both teams have a special teams return of over 30 yards 3. Saints defense records at least 3 sacks	No Yes No
Ron the fan	1- Drew at least 3 TD.s 2-Pierre gets in on the act this week with 2 TD performance. 3-Shockey gets back in pay dirt with a TD.	No No No
FuSoYa	Brees is sacked at least twice New Orleans wins the TO battle, but has offensive TO’s of their own(at least one) A Washington TD results from a starting field position on NO side.	No Yes No
saintsbrasil	Jason Campbell has 2 + ints Will smith has 2+ sacks Colston scores 2 tds	No No No
GSO Saints Fan	1) Brees: 4 TD, 0 INT 2) PT: 2 TD, 100+ yards rushing 3) Saints D scores another TD	No No No
saintsfan77	brees throws 2 tds thomas scores 2 rushing tds smith and hargrove each have at least one sack	Yes No No
SaintBevo	Saints D has at least 4 take-aways Brian Orakpo has at least on sack of Brees Pierre Thomas has at least 90 total yards and at least 1 TD	No No No
carolinasaintsfan	1. Colston has at least one TD. 2. S. Ellis get a fumble recovery, but holds on to this one. 3. Saints D. Ends have at least two sacks collectively.	Yes No No
sainteric	1. Saints hold Redskins under 100 yards rushing 2. Saints get 3 sacks 3. Saints rush for over 150 yards	Yes No No
darshiva420	180 or more yards rushing Shockey gets threes tds 2 defensive tds	No No No
daisy117	1. Brees throws 2+ TDs 2. Pierre Thomas has 100+ YFS 3. Brees has 0 INTs	Yes No No
benm316	1. Drew throws for at least 250 yards 2. Saints D gets 4 turnovers 3. Redskins convert on less than 50% of their third downs	Yes No No
bmi601	1. Saints defense gets a pick 6 2. Jason Campell gets sacked and fumbles 3. Redskins offense held to under 300 yards total	No No No
Philinwood	- Close game ( within 10 points) until mid- late 3rd qtr - Jason Campbell has 60 + rushing yds - Our special teams clearly outplay their special teams	No No No
BlackandGold4ever	1) Brees throws for 300+ yards, 3+ TD’s 2) Defense scores 1+ TD’s 3) Campbell is sacked at least 4 times	No No No
skinnykinney	1. Brees 3+ TDs and 250+ yards 2. Saints D gets 2+ turnovers 3. Our running game gets 120+ yards total and at least 1 TD.	No Yes No
Boo.	1. Brees 2 TDs of 40+ yards 2. Skins win T.O.P battle 3. Orakpo sack+forced fumble	Yes No No
PilneyPark	1. Saints 150+ yards total rushing 2. Saints force 2+ fumbles 3. Brees pulled before end of game	No Yes No
jray2000	1. Bush, Bell, and Thomas each get over 50 yards from scrimage 2. Saints DEF: 5 or more sacks 3. A Saints TE will score a TD	No No No
SaintsFanInIraq	1 – Sharper gets a Pick 6 2 – Jenkins and/or McKenzie gets a pick 6 3 – at least 4 offensive TD’s	No No No
jimfrotch	1. Saints win T.O. ratio 2. 20th player will score a TD for Saints this year (19 through week 11) 3. Brees throws under 300 yards	Yes No No
hakimdropstheball	1. Saints rush for at least 175 yards. 2. Saints win by at least 15 points. 3. Saints D get at least two turnovers against the Skins.	No No Yes
SaintsFanMD	1. Saints rush for more than 150 total yards. 2. Brees passes for more than 200 yards. 3. Saints D gets at least 2 turnovers and 1 pick 6.	No Yes No
coldpizza	1. Drew Brees will pass for less than 300 yards. 2. At least one tight end from each team will score a TD. 3. The Saints will fly home Sunday evening as 2009 NFC South champs.	No No Yes
RumDunnitt	1. Sean Payton gives game-ball to Greg Williams. Greg Williams wants a shut-out 2. Darren Sharper sets NFL record for INT. return yardage. 3. The Ellis Pressley D-Line makes Jason Campbell "All Shook Up" when they beat him like a "Hound Dawg" on their "JailHouse Rock". I suggest he not step on their "Gold Suede Shoes", because they will not "Love Him Tender"!	No No No
Deckape 69	Saints rush for over 150 yards Saints return a punt for a TD Brees throws 3 TD	No No No
HansDat	1) Bush 1 punt ret TD 2) Bush 1 short yardage rush TD 3) Bush 1 rec TD	No No No
saint boss hog	1.pierre thomas will rush for 75+ yards and a td. 2.saints defense gets a td 3.meachem gets atleast 1 td	No No Yes
Tigernut	1. 4 or more TD’s for Brees 2. 2 or more INT’s 3. Saints wear gold pants.	No No Yes
OldFartFan	water boy fills can’s with hot chocolate. Sharper + McKenzie wrestle INT into end zone each player receives half touch down. Sedrick Ellis recover’s fumble entire Saint’s defence dog pile’s Big E .	No No No
metryman	1. Brees 250+ yds.and 2 Td’s 2. Saints D 3 sacks and +2 TO’s 3. Lucky Pierre 100 total yds. and +1 Td	Yes No No
Scott2417	Saints defense scores 2 times Shockey 100+ yds. TD Brees 350+ yds. 2 TD passing, 1 TD rushing	No No No
jeremysherwin	Brees 3 TD Thomas 2 TD Defense gets 2+ turovers	No No Yes
Joseph William Stern	Saints score greater than 9 points in the first quarter. Redskins commit greater than three turnovers. There are exactly three video challenges in the game	No Yes No
simone219	1.Saints rush for ove 200 yards 2.Meachum catches 1+tochdowns 3.Our defense has 3+ turnovers	No Yes No
jgshocker22	1) brees will throw for 250+ yards, at least one TD and the redskins will no longer have the #1 pass D 2) Saints will get at least 1 INT and at least 2 sacks 3) Saints rush for 100+ yards	Yes No No
janepriceestrada	1. Brunell plays at least one snap. 2. Bell leads team in rushing, +80 yards. 3. Carney misses something prompting Payton to take him out back and toss him in the Potomac.	No No No
Malsby	1. Colston catches at least 1 TD 2. Brees throws for less than 300 yards 3. Redskins rush for at least 100 yards	Yes No No
DrWhoDat	1. Saints D scores a TD 2. Redskins will not score in 4th quarter 3. Saints rush for 150yds	No No No
Monkey Poop Battle	Saints defense records 6+ sacks Saints defense recovers at least two fumbles Pierre Thomas scored at least one TD.	No No No
Just 'Nother Day	1. Shockey scores two touchdowns. 2. Brees scores one rushing touchdown. 3. Bush scores two touchdowns.	No No No
redneckfan	Sharper has pick and sets NFL int. return record Brees throws for 3+ TD’s Saints combined rushing 150+ yards	No No No
WhoDat_OH	1) D/ST force 3+ Skins fumbles 2) At least 3 different Saints score TD 3) Skins do not score in second half	No No No
gavin31785	1. Saints get 3+ sacks 2. Saints have more rushing attempts than pass attempts 3. Saints get 1+ interceptions	No No Yes
Nez	PT has 100 yd day Colston 2 tds Drew throws for 200yds 3 tds	No No No

Poll

Who has last weeks most accurate predictions?

The VRR: DeMarcus Ware is the Dallas Pass Rush

Aaron Novinger — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:03:56 -0000

More photos » by Michael Thomas - AP

To win the third-down battles on defense, the Cowboys could use more pass rushers to help out the secondary.

Browse more photos »

DeMarcus Ware's injury in yesterday's game scared many of us, but it's now not seen as something too serious. In fact, Coach Phillips said in his press conference today that Ware is considered day-to-day. That's great news!

Having been released from the hospital with what is considered a sprain at the base of the neck, Ware is feeling much better and could be back soon.

"There is a possibility - again he came back a lot better today," Phillips said. "He was let out of the hospital early last night. He came back a lot better today so we will just have to see."

Though it is a shortened week because Dallas travels to New Orleans for a Saturday night game, Ware has yet to be ruled out. That's even better news for the Cowboys. Going up against the number one rated passer in the league in Drew Brees, they will need all the pass rushing help they can get.

Hat tip to OCC for the FanShot.

So what happens if Ware is not able to go on Saturday? The team could very well look to rookie Victor Butler to start.

The 6-2, 246-pound Butler has three sacks in limited playing time, all of which have come late in games. Phillips said the rookie, who played defensive end at Oregon State, is still learning the Cowboys' scheme and adjusting to playing outside linebacker.

"He's not a real big guy," Phillips said, "so that's part of it, too."

With or without Ware, I think we can all agree that the Dallas pass rush is rather inconsistent. Until recently, Jay Ratliff and Keith Brooking had been getting a rush up the middle. Perhaps Stephen Bowen can play a more prominent role against the pass-happy Saints.

If Ware is out, who is going to demand double teams? It's time for Anthony Spencer to step his game up one more level. DWare may make the game, but he'll be banged up. I saw Spencer maul the Chargers' tackles at times, yesterday. Although both the Saints' tackles are listed at 6-5, 315 lbs., Spencer brings a strong power rush.

Like Coach Phillips said, Butler is not too big a guy; and neither is the other option: Steve Octavien. He's more of a LB in the mold of Al Singleton instead of a DE/LB tweener like Ware and Spencer.

Whoever it is must be able to cover, too. Both RBs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas each have caught more than 30 receptions.

Speaking of covering - what's up with the third-and-longs? The secondary could definitely use some help on passing downs. Can't blame it all on the lack of a pass rush, but something's got to not give.

For the season, Cowboys' opponents have converted four times in seven chances on third-and-12, an abnormally high rate. In the last five games, Cowboys' opponents are 11-for-34 on third-and-eight or longer, also higher than the league average.

In other injury news, SS Pat Watkins sprained a PCL in yesterday's game. He is expected to miss 2-4 weeks. That's a big blow to the special teams coverage units.

TE Martellus Bennett will return to practice, but is not expected to play until the Redskins game.

FS Ken Hamlin will also return to practice this week. His status will probably depend on whether he participates fully or on a limited basis.

Phillips put the blame on the offensive line, not Marion Barber, for coming up short on the goalline.

"He hit it up in there good, but there was somebody there that we felt we could have come off and blocked. They played it a little bit different from what we had seen, but it wasn't that much different. We felt like we should have scored.''

Here's what Jason Garrett had to say about the series.

"Those were three different plays,'' Garrett said. "We had knocked them off the ball fairly consistently on that drive. Logic tells you we should be able to do it again."

"They did a good job making the stand.''

Week 16's Cowboys @ Redskins matchup will remain on Sunday Night Football.

The NFL and NBC have decided that Week 16 game between the Cowboys and the Redskins will remain in prime time.

New Orleans Saints' Offensive Player Grades @ Falcons

saints-nation — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 18:00:17 -0000

by Paul Abell - AP

11 days ago: New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush (25) dives into the end zone in front of Atlanta Falcons linebacker Mike Peterson, right, during an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009, in Atlanta. New Orleans won 26-23. (AP Photo/Paul Abell)

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Below are the grades for the Saints' offensive players for the game at Atlanta. Overall you'll notice very good grades across the board, but I will say the offense's inability to get the ball in the end zone at times kept the game closer than it should have been. The letter grade represents the player's individual performance and the GPA represents the player's cumulative effort over the course of the season. Don't worry if you think I'm being too nice, just wait for the defensive grades. They are horrendous.

Saints vs Falcons coverage

Saints vs Falcons recap

Saints vs Falcons boxscore

Drew Brees: A (3.28) Another fine and masterful performance by Brees. He's gotten his GPA dangerously close to Jahri Evans' with this string flawless games. It should be fun down the stretch to see who wins my team MVP based on highest GPA. He missed a couple of throws under pressure, but how can you complain with the game he had? Once again he wasn't sacked despite dropping back to pass 40 times. He finished 31 of 40 for 296 yards, 3 touchdowns and no turnovers. My only complaint is that he burned two timeouts with poor play clock management, and he could've been more precise in the red zone.

Reggie Bush: A- (2.61) Where did this performance come from? Bush came back in a big way, running the ball well, catching it effectively, and, brace yourselves, he even returned a punt well. The speed he showed on the screen pass was impressive. That touchdown 21 yard reception on a 3rd and 18 play, catching the Falcons in an all out blitz. He finished with 33 yards on 6 carries, 6 catches for 46 yards, 2 touchdowns receiving and a punt return for 23 yards. Give Bush credit for making one hard cut every time he touched the ball and then running with authority ahead. Amazing how much more effective he is when he's not "dancing". You all know what I'm talking about. He also bounced a 3rd and 1 play outside and ripped off a good run for a necessary conversion. Way to go Reggie.

Pierre Thomas: B+ (3.12) Thomas was used fairly often in the passing game, and had mixed results in the running game. As the game progressed he was more effective rushing, but I think the Saints could have used him more. At one point he looked banged up which is why the Saints may have abandoned their usual commitment to the run. He had 6 receptions for 53 yards, and 13 carries for 47 yards. He made no mistakes and showed great effort and toughness finishing off runs.

Lynell Hamilton: B- (2.67) Hamilton had limited reps, but he came in and gave the Saints a spark. I can't imagine there's many 4th string tailbacks in the NFL that are better. He had 13 yards on 4 carries and showed good force and physicality through the hole. He did have a nice run get called back by a holding call. He gets a B- because, let's face it, it's not like he made a huge impact on the game.

Marques Colston: B+ (2.95) Colston finished with 6 catches for 54 yards and a touchdown. It wasn't one of his dominant chain moving performances, but he made plays out there and he was solid. He made a catch on the opening drive showing off his freakish reach and reeling in a pass with his fingertips. He made it look easy, but that was a sick catch.

Devery Henderson: C- (2.95) Devery had some receptions and was dangerous after the catch, finishing with 3 catches for 31 yards. He also had two very bad drops. I worry after seeing him drop a few the past 3 weeks that he's reverting back to his old inconsistent ways. This was a mediocre performance. He got his hands on a ball in the end zone and couldn't secure it as he got hit, which was disappointing, but his second drop was an easy sideline pass that he flat out dropped. Unacceptable there, you've got to catch that one. He also got flagged on a holding call on a wide receiver screen to Meachem.

Robert Meachem: B+ (3.21) Meachem had another very solid performance. He finished with 4 catches for 57 yards, most on short routes. He also caught a 42 yard bomb downfield, and converted a 3rd and short on a 4 yard reverse. Based on the GPAs, Meachem has been the best Saints' receiver this season.

Jeremy Shockey: B (2.87) Shockey is pretty banged up. The Saints don't use him on clear running downs, and they avoid putting him in the game when they feel like they can manage without him. You've got to give the guy props for going out there on a bum ankle and showing some grit. Shockey was pretty effective in the passing game, finishing with 4 catches for 46 yards. Shockey has been clutch all season on 3rd down plays, and you can tell he's most often the primary option when the Saints really need a play. He did get caught for holding once, so that costs him the B+.

David Thomas: B- (2.36) Thomas finished with 2 catches for 9 yards. His role in the passing game has declined as he's been transformed into a fullback. I think it's safe to assume he'll be the lead blocker for the rest of the way, barring injury. It's no surprise the run game has been a little less effective given that Thomas isn't a natural fullback and that he's got major shoes to fill in Heath Evans'. He's done a pretty admirable job overall, though, and he'll get better. He does manage to still make contributions from time to time in the passing game, too.

Jermon Bushrod: B (2.70) Bushrod got pushed around early by John Abraham, and got help later to neutralize the dangerous pass rusher. Thank God this isn't the same Abraham as in his peak years, because I think Bushrod would have been eaten alive. None the less, Brees was never sacked and the running behind Bushrod was at times spectacular, and at other times average. He was pretty good overall. He fought hard.

Zach Strief: C+ (2.30) Strief was caught holding and had some miscues. He did fill in for Stinchcomb briefly at right tackle, though, and did a good job while he was in as a replacement there. The main issues he had were as an extra tight end on short plays, which is odd as it's been his calling card this year. Regardless, it's nice to have in Strief a guy who I feel is marginally inferior to both of our starting tackles. He can come in at any time and fill in and I don't think we miss that much of a beat. He's a nice reserve to have.

Carl Nicks: A- (3.10) Very solid in run and pass blocking. The majority of the runs came to the left side, and Nicks handled his man with ease. That said, why one earth is he primary option on a fake field goal? Why are we even running that play in that situation? Too bad Brunell didn't give him a chance because he was looking for an A+ if he scores a touchdown to put the game away.

Jonathan Goodwin: A- (3.18) Pretty solid game overall by Goodwin. On the Reggie Bush screen pass touchdown play, Colston did a pretty good job of blocking his man, but as Bush neared him around the 5 yard line, the defender was coming free to potentially take a shot at stopping Bush. Goodwin was pulling on the play and he absolutely blew up the defender, giving Bush an easy stroll into the end zone. Goodwin has a nice little nasty streak in him. I wish I was grading Jeff Faine on a per game basis because I'd love to see how his GPA would stack up to Goodwin's. I can't imagine there's any way it would be as good.

Jahri Evans: A- (3.31) Another textbook performances. I just didn't really feel like I could hand out A's despite the terrific pass blocking all day because the Saints finished with 95 yards rushing and a 3.7 average per carry. I did get a chance to watch Evans, mostly on passing plays, stand up his man and completely neutralize him. He would stand straight up and push his man back like he was playing with a 5 year old boy. Evans wasn't as nasty or powerful as Nicks/Goodwin in the running game for this one, but Brees would have had all day if it were one on one blocking drills. Seriously, go back and watch the tape. He completely shut down his man and rendered him useless on passing plays. It was almost like the defensive tackle gave up on rushing Brees and just decided he was going to do his best to limit the rushing plays by holding his ground.

Jon Stinchcomb: B+ (2.87) Stinchcomb banged up his leg (knee maybe?) and like Shockey he got a little band aid put on it, got the trainers to kiss it, and he was back out there. Just kidding, both guys should be applauded for shaking off injuries to go back out there and perform at a high level. I don't think anyone can question the character of Jon Stinchcomb. The guy is a very respected locker room influence and he lays it all on the line for the Saints. His mobility was a little hampered by the injury, but he was helped out by Brees' terrific pocket presence and footwork.

Darnell Dinkins: B (2.06) Going back to that ridiculous decision by Sean Payton to fake a field goal, Dinkins was the intended receiver. Seriously, Coach Sean, what were you thinking (said in Frank Caliendo doing Dr. Phil voice)? Anyway, Brunell bypassed Nicks, his primary target with non existent speed and zero flexibility and athleticism for his secondary target, Dinkins. Dinkins, mind you, is the blocking tight end who has a better chance of catching a ball with his feet. Dinkins not only wasn't able to keep his feet in bounds, he ran his route a good yard or two short of the first down anyway. Even if he comes down with that, it's a beyond stupid play made to look even more stupid by Dinkins' execution of it. Too bad, because I'd give the guy an A- if it wasn't for that. Finally he showed me some of his blocking skills and I can understand why the Saints kept him on the active roster injured early in the season. His blocking was masterful. He sealed the edge when he needed to, and he created huge lanes by using brute force. I have a feeling Mike Bell would have had a good day running behind him.

My Offensive Player of the Game: Drew Brees

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Saints @ Falcons: Time to go from Sprint Mode to Marathon Mode?

saints-nation — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 12:00:18 -0000

by Rob Carr - AP

18 days ago: New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees throws a pass against the Washington Redskins during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009, in Landover, Md. The Saints won 33-30 in overtime. (AP Photo/Rob Carr)

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Before I even touch on this matchup, I just want to say how crazy of a week it's been. After that improbable and ridiculous Redskins win we somehow managed to pull off (I'm still not quite sure how), the aftermath has been comical. By now you've all seen the TV Shot to Death video that's been circulating, and you've also seen the rise in popularity to celebrity status that The Uknown Who Dat has gotten. Funny, this "news" has been courtesy of the fan base almost entirely as the national media, relatively speaking, continues to ignore us (though the Brees appearance on Leno was nice to see). Add all these strangely funny things happening this week to the laughable underperforming play of Charles Grant, and you've got yourself the trifecta of hilarity.

Anyway, I digress, and as the Saints enter this weekend's clash against the Falcons it's time, in my opinion, to shift gears from sprint mode to marathon mode.

Saints vs Falcons coverage

Don't confuse my title for saying that I don't think the Saints should go for 16-0. I'll settle that by coming out and saying the following: If the Saints are 15-0 going into Carolina in week 17, I think Drew Brees should start the game. What I am saying is this: The ultimate goal of the Saints is winning the Super Bowl, and the less risks we take to ensure that the ultimate goal has the best chance of happening, the better.

There's a fine line between what you can and can't do when you're seeking perfection at 16-0 and winning a Super Bowl, but at this point with the division sealed up, being one win away from a first round playoff bye and having a two game lead on home field advantage with four games left, I think a slight tweak in approach is called for.There is nothing I would have changed from the approach the Saints had throughout the Redskins game. It was close, sloppy, and it saw the Saints go down two scores multiple times. They had to go for the win and give it their all. Should the same scenario happen this week at Atlanta, then they shouldn't change the approach there either.

That said, it's entirely possible with both Michael Turner and Matt Ryan likely out Sunday that the Saints could have a three posession lead in the third quarter. Yes, they had trouble against a struggling Redskins team; Yes, the defensive backfield is in shambles; Any given Sunday, that's why they play the game yada, yada, etc... I get all that. But they're also capable of blowing them out. If that happens, I saw some things in the Patriots game I would not want repeated.

At this point it's not one game at a time anymore. You have to consider what's best long term now. After Bill Belicheck quit on the Saints down 38-17, I remember thinking to myself as Mike Bell took the clock running carries: "Why not run Lynell Hamilton here. He's active..." Sure enough, Bell went limping to the sidelines and had me cursing, "You idiots!"

And who came in for Bell but Pierre Thomas. Ok, fine, Bell is the closer and you don't want to give the Patriots any new signs of life because of their pedigree. At this point, though, I would argue we have too much to lose. Kyle Eckel was about to be cut, for God's sake. Throw him to the wolves and let him run the football. If we happen to be up 21 points in the third quarter against Atlanta on Sunday, I not only want Lynell Hamilton running the ball, I want Mark Brunell handing the ball off and I want him running behind Zach Strief, Jamar Nesbit, Nick Leckey and Darnell Dinkins. I also want Usama Young, Pierson Prioleau, Marcus McCauley and Chris Reis in the defensive backfield. Yes, the Saints would potentially be exposed to a comeback but they can always put their starters back in without risking them during that potential comeback run.

I'm not saying we don't go for 16-0, but I'm saying the Saints have to be smarter about how they try to do it, and it can't be a guns blazing effort. No one here wants to see the Saints get 16-0 at the expense of the ultimate prize. Over the next four games I'm sure we'll see the Saints build a big lead at least a time or two, and I'm hopeful they've learned their lesson from how the game ended against New England. It's not one game at a time anymore, because they've clinched a playoff birth and they're about to clinch a first round bye. The Saints are now in the full blown marathon discussion, and some pacing would be smart.

Do you guys think I'm being too cautious? I'm sure there's some of you that are thinking 16-0 at all cost. I know you can't play worrying about injuries, but isn't there a difference between being scared and being smart?

Talking Saints With Canal Street Chronicles: The Sequel

Dave the Falconer — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:00:29 -0000

by Bill Haber - AP

Happ-i-ness? What's that? (AP Photo/Bill Haber)

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Grizzled veterans of this site will remember earlier in aught-nine, when I talked to Saintsational of Canal Street Chronicles about Chinese food and hubris. That feature now makes its triumphant return, with my black-and-gold friend and I riffing on snow, fortune cookies and his overwhelming urge to marry another man. No, seriously.

Follow along after the jump, and you might just learn something.

Saintsational: Alright. Let's get this started.

Dave the Falconer: Indeed.

Saintsational: I'm sure you want to ask me what it's like being the fan of such an awesome team.

Dave the Falconer: Well, first I'd have to ask why you switched to being a Falcons fan. Seems pretty disloyal to me. But for the sake of humoring you, what's it like to be a Saints fan right now?

Saintsational: Well, the Saints are kind of a big deal right now. Seriously though, I can't really say enough. It's hard to express in words.. This is something we've all been waiting for years to happen. I told you earlier that it's like everyone in the city drops ecstacy on Sunday and the high lasts all week.

Dave the Falconer: I certainly am envious of the success this season.

Saintsational: Did you see Drew on Jay Leno earlier tonight?

Dave the Falconer: No, I was busy driving through what we New Englanders like to call "a minor inconvenience."

Saintsational: Inconvenience? Is that traffic? Or snow?

Dave the Falconer: Big ol' snowstorm.

Saintsational: Oh, well, your loss dude.

Dave the Falconer: Is Drew a rock star-type figure in New Orleans at this point?

Saintsational: I don't know about rock star. Maybe more like Tiger Woods before his multiple extramarital affairs.

Dave the Falconer: So a cello star, maybe?

Saintsational: I will say this...we're having an election for mayor here in New Orleans next year. If he ran, he would win. Hands down. Wouldn't even need a run-off.

Dave the Falconer: He's probably also most qualified.

Saintsational: Haha. I'm laughing because it's true. I'm also crying...because it's true.

Dave the Falconer: You should probably see a therapist.

Saintsational: Drew's not as popular in New Orleans as Michael Vick is in Atlanta apparently. What's up with that?

Dave the Falconer: That's a cheap shot, my friend.

Saintsational: Door was open. Wiiiiiiiiiiiide open.

Dave the Falconer: There's still a large and vocal contingent of fans who I would say are equally or more attached to Vick than they are to the Falcons. You saw the results last Sunday.

Saintsational: Why? Matt Ryan is pretty darn good.

Dave the Falconer: I'm not licensed to psychoanalyze an entire fan base. So I'll just say...

Dave the Falconer: Hey! Look over there! :O

Saintsational: Where? I don't see anything...

Saintsational: Oh well, let's move on. Are the Saints going to have the good fortune of not seeing Matt Ryan on Sunday? Please answer Magic-8 ball style.

Dave the Falconer: Outlook hazy. Try again.

Saintsational: Damnit. I hate these things...Are the Saints going to have the good fortune of not seeing Matt Ryan on Sunday?

Dave the Falconer: Outlook good. Instead, you'll face off against the awesome might of Chris Redman.

Saintsational: Seriously? No Matt Ryan?

Dave the Falconer: Seriously. The coaching staff is saying they won't play Ryan without injured linemen Sam Baker and Harvey Dahl. Something about not getting him killed. I'm a bit hazy on the details.

Saintsational: Really? That's pretty interesting. It's funny, because that means they don't give a flying you know what about Redman. That must make him feel good.

Dave the Falconer: He used to sell insurance. I'm presuming he has some.

Saintsational: Ha! Alright, more injury questions. What about Turner? Please answer this one fortune cookie style.

Dave the Falconer: Michael Turner are find true love only in playing field. Lucky Numbers: 4 775 33 666. Learn To Speak Chinese: *&@#*$& is Boat.

Saintsational: You've outdone yourself with that one. So you think he'll play?

Dave the Falconer: Actually, I'm doubtful he will. Damn fortune cookie format. I think the coaching staff has to take it easy on him, especially because Jason Snelling and Jerious Norwood are good options.

Dave the Falconer: I noticed that Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell and Reggie Bush were all limited in practice. Who among them will play this weekend? Please answer as if you were Alex Trebek.

Saintsational: To be sure, the answer we were looking for was, "They will all probably dress this Sunday." We would have also accepted, "The Roaring Twenties will roar on."

Dave the Falconer: Haha. We would also have accepted "Potent Potables."

Saintsational: The Penis Mightier for $27,000, Trebek!

Dave the Falconer: I'll take The Rapist for $200. That's therapist, Mr. Connery!

Saintsational: Ohhhh, that's good stuff.

Dave the Falconer: Almost as good as the game that will be played this Sunday! Speaking of which...How does Robert Meachem keep scoring? It seems as though Marques Colston is the target on a lot of tough passes, but Meachem finds his way into the end zone frequently. How do we stop him?

Saintsational: You can't stop him. You can only hope to contain him. I love Robert Meachem.

Dave the Falconer: If you love him so much, why don't you marry him? Aside from the fact that it's not legal in Louisiana?

Saintsational: I would. Dave, if loving Robert Meachem is wrong, I don't want to be right.

Dave the Falconer: This took an unexpected turn.

Saintsational: Seriously, everybody has a man-thing for Drew but I think Robert Meachem is winning some admirers.Seriously, though, it's like Payton said a couple of weeks ago...he just has a knack for making things happen and Payton has resigned himself to incorporating Meachem more. If he's available in your fantasy league, pick him up. And with Colston in the mix as well, it's tough for teams to cover. Not only that, there's Devery Henderson and Jeremy Shockey to account for. Meachem has been the beneficiary of all that depth lately.

Dave the Falconer: He's been stealing touchdowns from Colston for me. So I think they should call him Robber Filchem. That's just me, though.

Saintsational: My favorite nickname for him is Pontchartrain Meach. That's a reference to old school New Orleans.

Dave the Falconer: Whoa...Whoa.

Saintsational: I was going to ask you before...how do you expect the Falcons to be able to beat the Saints without Ryan and Turner?

Dave the Falconer: Simple. Run the ball frequently. Wear down your defense. And count on Redman to deliver short passes that carve up your secondary. Either that or bar the door out of the locker room.

Saintsational: We're talking about Chris Redman?

Dave the Falconer: Yup.

Dave the Falconer: Or as I like to call him...Cristobal Rojohombre.

Saintsational: Ha. That's funny 'cause it's a different language.

Dave the Falconer: I knew you'd get it.

Saintsational: Over on The Falcoholic you've got this game listed as a "Season Definer" and list it as "Serious Business." Are you still hopeful for a playoff berth?

Dave the Falconer: I'm hopeful. But I don't think it's particularly realistic at this point. A winning season is still within our grasp, however.

Dave the Falconer: What do you think of the possibility of an undefeated season? Should the Saints go for it? And I just died a little inside typing that.

Saintsational: Yes, I think they should go for it. And they will go for it. Payton has said so and Brees has said so. They are going for it and I couldn't be happier. It's getting really exciting. Now that it's so close and a real possibility, I really want them to get it. That's why last weeks game was such a heartpounder. Every game they win makes that first eventual loss that much worse.

Dave the Falconer: It should be a good game, then. We played you guys reasonably tough earlier in the season.

Saintsational: Yeah, I'm definitely concerned. Mainly because of the Saints defense.

Dave the Falconer: Why, does your defense have more problems than a mathematician's diary? More "Ohnos" than Yoko's family?

Saintsational: Last week against the Redskins they looked like last years defense.. I'm affraid it's getting slightly overlooked because of all the success of the team but with starting cornerbacks Jabari Greer and Tracy Porter out for a little bit, their absence is becoming evident. I'm hoping Greer returns this week. But they won't get very far looking like they did last week. That's why I am glad Redman is getting the start.

Dave the Falconer: Oh yeah? Well.... >:-(

Saintsational: With all of the Falcons injuries, has any player stepped up and surprised fans? Any insider fantasy tips?

Dave the Falconer: Gonzo's always a good choice. And so is Roddy White. Beyond that, there aren't any surprises that are worthwhile from a fantasy perspective. We all love Eric "Special" Weems. He's a great kick returner.

Saintsational: No players that have stepped up and surprised?

Dave the Falconer: Not in recent weeks. Did you see the Eagles game?

Dave the Falconer: Yeesh.

Saintsational: Yeah, that's true. Sorry, you're still sensitive.

Dave the Falconer: I'm a Falcons fan. I was born sensitive.

Saintsational: Tell Saints fans something surprising/interesting about the Falcons that we probably don't know.

Dave the Falconer: Our points for and points against averages are both 23.3, and we're 6-6. So if nothing else, we're remarkably consistent.

Dave the Falconer: Same question, but for the Saints.

Saintsational: Sean Payton and Drew Brees are members of the same fraternity.

Saintsational: I guess we'll end it as we usually do...with a prediction. This will not count toward your three predictions in our weekly prediction contest this friday.

Dave the Falconer: Gosh darnit. I predict (foolishly) a 27-24 Falcons win. Based on nothing but gumption. You?

Saintsational: I think it will be close but the Saints will be on top. Let's go with 35-32 Saints.