Magic in Dallas???

When it comes to sports collaborations, the city of New Orleans is all too familiar with unique hook-ups. For example, fans termed the chemistry of  Chris Paul and Tyson Chandler from the then New Orleans Hornets, the "Crescent City Connection." Now, the most popular collaboration in the city is none other than between a champion quarterback and his superstar tight end.   

The bond between Saints quarterback  Drew Brees and tight end Jimmy Graham is a special collaboration. 
 
The wisdom and arm power of Brees combined with Graham's size and agility are responsible for nearly 300 yards and two touchdowns in the first three games of the season.
 
If the Saints want to win in Arlington, those same ingredients are necessary in Sunday's primetime matchup against the Cowboys in AT&T Stadium. 

The last time the two teams met, it was November in the Mercedes- Benz Superdome and the Saints were 6-2 entering that game. Offense and defense were clicking and hitting on all cylinders. In the end, the Cowboys galloped back to Texas in an  embarrassment over a score of 49-17. 

This time around, things are a little bit different. This time, with a record of 1-2, the Saints are looking to get back to .500 in the first quarter of the season. On the other hand, the Cowboys(2-1) are trying to avoid falling to .500. 

Thus far, the Texas team is on a roll. In week three, Jason Garrett's group trailed by 21 points against the St. Louis Rams, but came up victorious in the end. 

The Saints are favorites in Sunday night's game. But given their inconsistent play on defense and the performance of Dallas as of late, shouldn't the spread be in Dallas's favor? So what exactly are the experts saying? Well, the majority of analysts from the Dallas Morning News are picking the Saints. Down in New Orleans, specifically the Times- Picayune writer, Larry Holder has New Orleans winning by a point. 

Should be a game of many different twists and turns. Anyway, here are your keys to the game.


OFFENSE:
#1- Run early and often. Set the tone in the rushing 
      game. While Mark Ingram is out with a hand injury, Khiry Robinson is more than ready to answer the call. #feedthatboy

#2-Build a fortress. Yes, it's a bit repetitious to mention each week the importance of protecting Drew Brees. A clean secure quarterback is a high performing quarterback.

#3 Flawless receiver performance. Eliminate mistakes. Dropped passes and missed opportunities on enemy turf can be critical in Sunday's game. If the research is correct, it will be interesting to see how Nick Toon responds in his first action of the regular season. This game will also be a great showing for Kenny Stills. 

One thing worth mentioning is that defender Morris Claiborne is having some issues within the organization.The former LSU standout loss his starting spot to Orlando Scandrick. Mo will be looking to prove something to Jerry Jones. 

Defense

#1 Contain Dez Bryant and limit the passing game. The arrogant wide receiver has already voiced his opinion on former Dallas Defensive Coordinator, Rob Ryan's alleged game plan. Bryant is adamant that if the Saints double team him, running back Demarco Murray will have field day. Of course the Saints won't forget about the other options for receiver, Terrance Williams and Dwayne Harris. Don't be surprised if Kenny Vaccaro comes up big in this game.   

#2 Tight Coverage. Big play from Cornerback Keenan Lewis. Disrupting the concentration of skilled receivers is necessary for the Saints to be victorious in this game and for the rest of the season.

#3 Sack Tony Romo.
With monsters like Junior Galette and Cameron Jordan, getting to Tony Romo is definitely not impossible.


The team that wins the turnover battle, walks away with the victory.


Game prediction:  Saints 24-21

Season prediction: 11-5; trip deep into the post season; maybe a SB Championship.

                                                                                                                  Cheers,
                                                                                                                SC

****please drink responsibly. Age 21 and older. Always choose a designated driver.

          Third TIME'S the CHARM

Final Thoughts:  Saints 20 Vikings 9

Last Sunday's game in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome wasn't anything short of a tall glass of water for the New Orleans Saints organization and their fans. A record of 1-2 looks and sounds better than 0-3. If it hadn't been for a protected Drew Brees, the team may not have taken an early lead over the Minnesota Vikings with two of their touchdowns scored in the first quarter. If it weren't for Pierre Thomas and tight end Josh Hill, it may have been a disastrous Sunday in front of the home crowd. Before Vikings Quarterback Matt Cassel left the game with an injury in the second quarter, the football gods appeared to be in the Saints favor, well almost. Two scores on offense, dominant in the time of possession and an improved defense. But when rookie quarterback Teddy Bridgewater entered the game in place of Cassel, Saints fans most probably shared the same reaction, "Lawd have mercy!" Bridgewater, has a style most comparable to Michael Vick and he nearly had a field day on enemy turf in his first professional start. But that's usual for Saints fans. Not a factor for the better-prepared Saints defense.The Saints held Bridgewater and the Vikings to three field goals in Sunday's game.

That stellar performance is worth a toast.


TO: Rob Ryan and the Saints Defense. For rallying the troops and preventing a major slump. Not only did the defense not allow a touchdown, but they also held both Vikings receivers to less than 80 receiving yards.

TO: Drew Brees. The nine on his chest stands for 9th ward. That's exactly what came out of him when he was body slammed by a Vikings defender in what looked to be a WWF style move. His O-line couldn't get in position fast enough. Brees got up in fight mode. Oh and he completed all but eight of his passes.

TO: Marques Colston. Finally! There is still some left in the tank. Colston pulled one in from Drew Brees to let us know he is still the Saints leading receiver of all time.

WHO DAT! TWO DAT!

Up next, the Tony Romo-led Dallas Cowboys (2-1) in AT&T Stadium.
Stay tune for my first quarter analysis on the Saints season thus far.

   Season prediction: 11-5; trip deep into the post season; maybe a SB Championship.
                                                                                                                      
                                                                                                                             Cheers,
                                                                                                                                 SC 


****please drink responsibly. Age 21 and older. Always choose a designated driver.

Home Sweet Dome

When the Saints enter the dome for the first time this season, two things for certain will be in their favor: Home field advantage and No Adrian Peterson. All that translates to is home crowd support and a small break defending the run. The defense against the passing game is hideous considering two quarterbacks threw for nearly 700 passing yards in the last two weeks.  With the absence of Peterson, the question is can will the Saints allow running backs Matt Asiata and Jerick Mckinnon to dictate the game?

From news on the Vikes website, the purple people are interested in exploiting the Saints’ defense. It shouldn’t be hard to do given the LAST two games which both resulted in losses. The question in mind is do the Saints want it bad enough? The Saints defense have no takeaways, only one forced fumble.  

 The offense is getting out to a slow start causing them to play from behind. Both of the last two games have been decided by a field goal or less.  With both centers listed as questionable, will Drew Brees have the protection necessary to rally this team to victory?  Without further ado, here are your keys to the game.

 

OFFENSE:

 In order for Drew Brees to lead this team to a win, he may have to make a run for it. Even if it means, sliding for a first down or scrambling to make time for a receiver to get open. Receivers must be disciplined enough to get in position to make a play. #catch#secure#run

The running game must be priority. Since Mark Ingram is out and Khiry Robinson is stepping in as the number two rusher, it should make for an interesting day in the rushing attack. Expect him to break a few for big gains in front of the home crowd.

 

Defense:

STAY ALERT! The two veterans on the Saints Defense, Jairus Byrd and Keenan Lewis must step up and play a flawless game. Byrd is beginning to find his comfort zone as evident by the team’s one and only forced fumble. All the analysts are big on Vikings receiver, Cordarrelle Patterson. Of course Rob Ryan should try and contain him but no one should forget the others like former Green Bay Packer, Greg Jennings.

FORCE THE ILL ADVISED THROWS: Veteran QB Matt Cassell is barely completing half of his passing attempts. He’s been intercepted four times and has been sacked six times already in two games. If the Saints can get some pressure on Cassell this Sunday, then look for the home team to come up big. 

Keep the tight end a non-factor. Limiting Kyle Rudolph from racking up yardage will shut down the extra option. If everyone does their part on defense, then the Vikings options for big plays are limited.

Game Prediction:

SAINTS 24- Vikings 21.

Note: I try and never pick against the Saints but something tells me the Vikings are wanting to take full advantage of the Saints and any weaknesses that turn up in this game. I have been wrong before but if the Saints don’t pay big tomorrow, the Vikings will have their way.

                                                                                                                               

  Injuries:

S Marcus Ball- OUT

RB Mark Ingram-OUT

LB David Hawthorne-OUT

FB Eric Lorig-OUT

C Jonathan Goodwin – PROBABLE

LB Kyle Knox-PROBABLE

C Tim Lelito- QUESTIONABLE

LB Curtis Lofton-PROBABLE

WR Joseph Morgan-PROBABLE

 

                                                                                                                                 Cheers,

                                                                                                                                        SC

OH-AND-TWO

Final Thoughts: Saints at Browns

Even if the Saints would have pulled out of FirstEnergy Stadium with a win, multiple concerns still need to be addressed. How about the fact that the Saints defense can’t manage to get off the field on third and long situations? How about the fact that they can’t force turnovers? For the second week in a row, it appears that the group as a whole is not clicking in the most crucial moments. My speculations are evident by the heated debate between Defensive coordinator Rob Ryan and Head Coach Sean Payton.

The mere fact is that the Saints had a chance to end the game on third and 12, with more than two minutes left. If I were Sean Payton, I would be constipated and would let Rob Ryan know as well. Now while it’s too soon to call the season, I wouldn’t exactly call them Super Bowl caliber after a performance like today. But there is hope.

On the bright side, minus the interception, the Saints offense put up numbers and managed to keep the group alive despite the slow start. Even better news, it’s still early in the season and even the Falcons loss to the Bengals.   

Trust me, Rob Ryan and his defense will show improvement by game three. Until then, how about a shot?

Tip your glass to:

 To punter, Thomas Morstead for pinning the Browns deep near their own end zone late in the fourth quarter to give the organization and Who Dat Nation a shot at the first victory of the season.

 

Up next, Minnesota

Eventhough the team failed to bring home a win, things should be looking up in next week's home opener against the Vikings(1-1).

 

                                                                                                                  Cheers anyhow,

                                                      SC

 

EXECUTE

 

In order for the Saints to put game one behind them, the team’s focus should be EXECUTION in Cleveland…..especially on defense. Last Sunday against Atlanta, the Saints allowed Matt Ryan to throw for nearly 500 yards. Of course it was only the first game of the season and it’s a bit premature to label the Saints D as awful, but ranking last in pass defense is a cause for concern. Yes, even after game one. If the performance on defense Sunday afternoon against the Browns is anything like the Atlanta showing, it will damn sure be a long season for the organization and a helluva long season for the Saints fan base.

Even Sean Payton claims that Browns quarterback, Brian Hoyer can carry this team this season. Here’s what we know about Hoyer. He’s only had four career starts with the Browns and his victory record sits at 3-1. Just because the Browns couldn’t convert on third downs against the Pittsburgh Steelers last Sunday, I wouldn’t ignore the fact that the Browns have superstar veteran, Miles Austin, leading the receiving corp.  With Ben Tate listed as out for Sunday’s game, can the Saints shut down the running game carried by rookies? What about tight end Jordan Cameron? We know that he has some shoulder trouble and has not practiced in days and he himself is having a contract dispute with the team. Last season, Cameron nearly pulled in nearly a thousand yards in receiving. While his stats last season weren’t bad, it’s the previous seasons that have his contract in limbo. He seems to stepping up as a premier tight end. But can and will he be named with the likes of Jimmy Graham and the Patriots Rob Gronkowski? Tomorrow we may or may not have a better view of Cameron.

Now, No matter the history in Cleveland, don’t for one second think that the Browns are going to lay down and not take full advantage of the Saints weak spots. Both teams are looking for their first victory of the season. For one, veterans like Karlos Dansby and Donte Whitner will make mince meat of the Saints offensive line and the receivers. That goes for you Jimmy Graham….. OH AND LEST WE FORGET…… MARQUES COLSTON. It already late and I’m having writers block….so without wasting any more time here are your keys to tomorrow’s victory.

 

Keys to the Game:

OFFENSE:

Keep the drive alive- Converting on third down is crucial for even little league teams. If the Saints can’t manage to win the first down battle in Cleveland, you can kiss the post season good bye and crown the Bucs or worst….the Falcons with the division.

Ball Security- It seems juvenile but pulling the ball in and tucking seems to be an issue on the Saints receiving corp. If the Brown’s defense is anything like a swarm of gnats (and I suspect they are), you can expect that the Saints O-line will be put to shame. #catch#secure#tuck#run

DEFENSE:

Get off the field on third downs: It is necessary for the Saints defense to instill a three strikes policy. Meaning, the opposing offense gets no more than three shots in a drive. The Falcons converting on 3^rd and long on more than one occasion, was a definite eye-opener. Force three and outs.

Get pressure on the Quarterback- The game will rely on the defensive scheme of Rob Ryan. Will he be aggressive? I wouldn’t send a full out blitz too frequently but I would make my presence known to Browns quarterback, Hoyer. Force the ill-advised throw.



Saints 31- Browns 23

Key Injuries:

Saints

Safety Marcus Ball -out

Erik Lorig -out

 

Browns

Ben Tate- out

Jordan Cameron- questionable

Barkevious Mingo-questionable

Desmond Bryant - Questionable

Paul McQuistan - Questionable

 John Hughes – Questionable              

                      

                                                                                                                                                Cheers,

                                                                                                                                                   SC

 

****please drink responsibly. Age 21 and older. Always choose a designated driver.

 

Final Thoughts: PHUCK DAT!

 If you take a look at last season's final game when Colston threw a pass to the defense not only to end the game but the team’s season and now this….. A strip by the defender in overtime giving the Falcons the ball. This has pink slip written all over it. Hey, if they can  hand me one, he can stand in line as well. #oldmanColston His days are numbered.

Another point that needs to be addressed, THIRD DOWN DEFENSE. Saints needs to get off the field on third downs. Two- too many- instances where Rob Ryan’s group couldn’t manage to exit after third and long scenarios. Keeping Atlanta’s drive alive by allowing them to convert on third downs proved to be back beater for the Saints in their season opener. This game gives Atlanta momentum and could bite New Orleans even harder later in the season.

 Next Up: Cleveland Browns

 Just because of a dismal end to the first game of the season, against the  does not necessarily mean that we have nothing to cheer about. Instead of a toast, how about a shot…heh?

Raise your glasses to:

Brandon Cooks. Why? The rookie wide receiver made big plays and grabbed his first regular season touchdown of his NFL career. Can I get a refill for next week’s game? This time let’s hope it is a victory.

Jairus Byrd. Why? The NFL veteran forced a fumble in the Falcons end zone and the Saints recovered.

 

                                                                                                     Cheers Anyhow,
                                                                                                               SC

 

 



****please drink responsibly. Age 21 and older. Always choose a designated driver.

TWICE is NICE!!!!

After suffering a bout of postseasonal/offseasonal depression and then watching the Saints work out some preseason kinks, I can come out of my shell full fledge and proudly yell “TWO DAT!”

 When the teams kicks off its regular season in Atlanta on Sunday at noon, so many interesting   events to look forward to in this crucial match up against their hated division foes. There’s no doubt both teams always come to play to their fullest capacity during each meeting.

Experts will have so many avenues to approach during this game, it shouldn’t be difficult to analyze this duel.  The first thing that will be mentioned is the fact that the Atlanta Falcons were last in the division last season with a record of 4-12.  Last season, the Falcons only managed one win against divisional opponents and three total wins against NFC opponents. That makes me flutter!  They may only be a tad bit better this season.  But what about the infamous myth of last to first? This season will prove that those who were last, still won’t be crowned champions. Better yet, they may end up second or third in the division.

As previously stated, any angle chosen to analyze this game will give you a mouthful. So many different foci to observe heading into this game like what about the tight end battle? With the exit of Tony Gonzales, who will be Matt Ryan’s go to guy? Will he be confident in Bear Pascoe or Levine Toilolo?

We already know Jimmy Graham is on tap from his preseason performance. Although he missed workouts, it appears he hasn’t missed a step.  Ben Watson seems to be stepping up. Some people, including myself, didn’t think he would make it another season in Black and Gold. So is it safe to say that the Saints come up victorious in the tight end comparison? I dare you to say otherwise.

 

Keys to the game: This will be interesting.

Offense: Rushing Attack. QB PERFORMANCE. Receiving Corp. Will Khiry Robinson be a major factor in most of the Saints rushing plays? He can clearly gain more yardage than Pierre Thomas. Thomas is starting to step up a bit and fight for more yards. How about Drew Brees? Is he healthy? Is the protection on his left side solid or do we have to re-sign Ryan Griffen?  It won’t take a psychic reading to foretell that Luke McCown clearly is not a trustworthy back up. Matt Ryan will be eager to start the season with a win against his biggest opponent.  Surely, handing the Saints their first loss might give them the spark they need to gain a head start in the division.

What about the receiving corps? The performance of Brandin Cooks is looking up to be a bright spot this season while watching him in preseason.

Will this be the season of Osi Umenyiora as a Falcon? Has he found his niche in the Falcons defense? He’ll be looking to reposition himself as one of the league’s elite going up against Drew Brees. Protection is crucial.

Defense: MAN UP!

This should be REALLY REALLY interesting. Contain Stephen Jackson. Contain White, Julio and Douglas.

No one is blind to the fact that Stephen Jackson a beast.  We know he is unafraid to meet defenders head on and carry them down the field. Will his performance be enough to stiffen Rob Ryan’s gang? In their preseason performance, the Saints defense almost looked ready to play damn near anyone. Matt Ryan will be eager to start the season with a win against his biggest opponent.  Surely, handing the Saints their first loss might give them the spark they need to gain a head start in the division. With just a few more kinks to work out, the Saints D may just seal the deal on another championship. Did I mention they have to pass the Devin Hester test? Julio Jones will have something to prove after missing most of the season with injury.  The worst possible scenario is to leave Hester, Jones or Douglas alone in space. That could make for a looooooooo ng Sunday evening for Who Dat Nation.

Special Teams: CONTAIN DEVIN HESTER! The Falcons still have a bitter taste in their mouth in regards to Steve Gleason and his infamous stretch causing a blocked punt years ago. #nowhiteflags. They’ll be looking to run one in the end zone with Hester. Is it just me or has Devin lost a step or two in the speed department? Sunday will answer all the questions and clear up any confusion.

 With the first game yet to be played, I have predicted the Saints may go on to another Superbowl and win it all.  I may be a bit premature but I have faith that this team, this year will make it deep into the playoffs…. IF AND ONLY IF DREW BREES REMAINS HEALTHY ENOUGH to lead the Saints in the post season!

                                                                                                                         CHEERS,

                                                                                                                              SC

Game prediction: SAINTS 31 vs falcons 20

Season prediction 11-5 trip deep into the post season; may be a SB Championship.

 

****please drink responsibly. Age 21 and older. Always choose a designated driver.