After almost giving Who Dat nation
a cardiac arrest, the Saints who sit atop the NFC South with a 2-0 record,
stunned the struggling Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-2) on a last minute drive that
set up a Garett Hartley field goal.
Forecasters did predict accurately
it would be cloudy, but with a chance of WHO DAT? A game delay due to weather
forced the teams to their respective locker rooms for more than an hour. When
play resumed, the wet field didn't seem to have much of an influence on offensive
strategy. It was mainly the defense of both teams that set the tempo for most of the
game.
Here’s a round starting with the
Saints’ defense.
A toast:
To: Malcolm Jenkins. Why? He
intercepted Bucs’ Quarterback Josh Freeman’s pass and returned it 31-yards.*
To: Jimmy Graham. Why? Tampa’s busted coverage led to Graham’s wide
open touchdown in the first quarter. The defense left what was virtually known
as Revis Island, deserted.
TO: Cam Jordan. Why? On a Blitz,
Cam sacked Freeman causing a fumble. The Saints recovered.
Next up : Arizona Cardinals
Given the 2-0 start, it’s probably too soon to start
planning trips to New Jersey to what is now being deemed the “Storm Bowl.” The back-to-back wins are just two reasons to
parade through the streets months before Carnival season. No need to break out the
umbrellas just yet until after a victory over the next opponent, the Arizona Cardinals.
The Cards (1-1) are coming off a win against the Detroit
Lions (1-1). Arizona trailed for most of the game but the Lion’s mistakes led
to a comeback. If it had not been for running back Rashard Mendenhall’s touchdown
in the fourth quarter, the Cardinals would be sitting at 0-2. Not to mention,
New Orleans-native Tyrann Mathieu’s drive-ending tackle to secure the Cardinal’s
victory.
Mathieu, also known as “The Honey Badger,” is clearly making
a name for himself in the Southwest. It will be interesting to see how well he
performs in front of the home crowd. Hopefully, this week he doesn’t take what he
wants.
Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who is probably the face of the Cardinal’s
franchise, is questionable for Sunday’s match-up. If anyone else is thinking like a coach, Fitz
should make an appearance but it may be a game-time decision. Mendenhall is also listed as questionable.
KEYS TO THE GAME
Defense:
In order for the Saints to be successful against the
Cardinals offense, they must contain the running game. If Mendenhall is a go,
remember he is still battling a toe injury. If he’s listed as out, expect Alfonse Smith, a
fourth year man out of Kentucky to carry out the rushing attack. Larry Fitzgerald is a load to defend. He’s much
like Marques Colston in that you can double him up, but his athleticism and
flexibility will put you to shame. Take
notice his longer, slender build and ability to leap for the catch. The one
thing that separates him from Colston is speed. #Playreceiverstightly.
#sayhellotomylittlefriend#32
Offense
After a dismal performance against the Bucs, Drew Brees and the
Saints must be on one accord this week. The interceptions made a week ago, nearly
killed the team. Especially, the one tossed
directly to Mason Foster for a touchdown.
It is vital that the Saints front line protect Brees and give him time
to see down field to make safe decisions. Ball security is a must. Keep the ball high out of reach from LSU
standouts Tyrann Mathieu and Patrick Peterson. Any mishaps on offense and the
afternoon will be a long, miserable one.
The Saints have the upper hand though with home field advantage. As always, Who Dat Nation will be a factor.
Special teams
Special Teams this week has to get back to the basics. The
focal point this week, field position. Rack up yards on kick-off and punt
returns. Not penalties. #BALLSECURITY
Notable injuries
Roman Harper is out against the Cardinals
Prediction: Cardinals 21 Saints 30
Next week’s post will
contain the season record prediction.
Cheers,
SC
*Courtesy of NFL.com
****please drink responsibly. age 21 and older. always
choose a designated driver.
No comments:
Post a Comment