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.