There will be a new Superbowl champion this year after the New Orleans Saints lost a 41-36 shootout duel to the Seahawks in Seattle. The defending champs were ousted from the playoffs by a team who finished the regular season with a losing record. For the first time in the history of the NFL playoffs, a team with a 7-9 record has recorded a playoff victory. Just how did the Superbowl champs fall at Quest Field to a Seattle team most people believed had no right to be in the post-season? Look no further than the quarterback. Thirty-five year old Matt Hasselbeck compiled 272 yards and four touchdowns as the seven-win Hawks topped the Saints and returned to top form. Marshawn Lynch, the dynamic running back for Pete Carroll’s Seahawks, scored on an electrifying 67 yard rush with three minutes left to clinch the first playoff win for a losing team. Lynch broke tackles all afternoon and rushed for 131 yards in establishing the Hawks’ ground game. Seattle’s defense took shots at MVP Drew Brees and the Saints’ offense down after down and now will face either Atlanta or Chicago next weekend.
Garrett Hartley went 3-for-3 on field goals Saturday afternoon. The New Orleans’ kicker posted the first points of the game three minutes into the first quarter as Seattle held the high-octane Saints to three points. Heath Evans’s one yard pass from Brees gave the defending champions a 10-0 lead following Hasselbeck’s lone interception of the day (to Jabari Greer) and a passer interference penalty against the Hawks’ Walter Thurmond. Seattle found a way to answer back after trailing 10-0. The Hawks benefited from good field possession on their second possession and Hasselbeck recovered to find the hands of John Carlson. Carlson’s 11 yard touchdown grab was one of two scores for the tight end on the day.
Former Seahawk, running back Julius Jones, padded the Saints’ edge to 17-7 with a second quarter rushing touchdown from five yards out. The Seattle offense answered back again, needing only six plays to drive 70 yards down the field for another score. Carlson caught a seven yard pass from the Seattle signal caller to cut the Saints’ lead to three points. The underdog Hawks added a 29 yard field goal by Olindo Mare and a Brandon Stokley 45 yard touchdown reception to take their first lead of the afternoon with 1:15 remaining in the half. Stokley led the Hawks with 73 receiving yards and picked up his first touchdown of the season. The Saints were able to manage a field goal before time expired in the half. Brees launched a 40 yard bomb to Devery Henderson to set up Hartley’s 22 yard kick for the 24-20 halftime score in the air-it-out affair at Quest.
Seattle’s championship caliber run continued after the break on third-and-two during the first home possession of the second half. Hasselbeck connected with Mike Williams on a 38 yard lob to put the Hawks ahead by eleven. Williams snagged five receptions for 68 yards in the win. Mare’s second field goal increased Seattle’s advantage to 34-20 with 5:27 to play in the third quarter. The Saints chipped into the two touchdown lead maintained by Seattle as the Hawks’ offense stalled slightly in the final stanza. Jones found the end zone for a four yard touchdown and Hartley added his third field goal to make it a four point game again. Hasselbeck completed 22-of-35 passes on Saturday but threw five consecutive incompletions in the fourth quarter with Seattle clinging to a slim lead. The Hawks tried to run out the clock with 4:20 remaining in the game. Lynch was handed the ball on second down and went on a power run to the end zone. Six different Saints attempted to tackle the speedy Lynch, but his 67 yards was the longest by a Seahawk in six years. Most importantly, his outburst gave the Hawks the cushion they needed to finish off New Orleans. Brees added a late touchdown pass to Henderson for the final margin, but an onside kick went Seattle’s way to complete one of the biggest upsets in playoff history. Brees finished with 404 yards and two touchdowns but will not be wearing another Superbowl ring this season.
Parting Points: An exciting weekend in sports- Jim Harbaugh is San Francisco bound (here’s hoping he can make Troy Smith into an elite passer), Pitt pummeled Kentucky on the gridiron, the Mountaineers master Georgetown on the hardwood, the Jets pull off another lucky win on the toes of Nick Folk, and Matt Garza is traded to the Cubs.
Showing posts with label New Orleans Saints. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Orleans Saints. Show all posts
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Super Saints Survive Sixth Straight
New Orleans nipped the 49ers for the sixth straight time on Monday night at Candlestick Park. Drew Brees spoiled San Francisco’s bid for their first win when he connected with Marques Colston on a 30 yard play in the final minutes. Colston’s reception set up Garrett Hartley’s game winning 37 yard field goal as time expired to give the visiting Saints a 25-22 victory. New Orleans is 2-0 for the second consecutive season, while the Niners are 0-2 for the first time in six years.
Brees threw for 254 yards and a pair of scores. The 31 year old former Purdue signal caller completed 28 of 38 passes and orchestrated the game winning 51 yard drive. The Saints climbed out to a 9-0 lead in the first quarter after a Reggie Bush touchdown followed up a two point safety on the game’s third play. New Orleans capitalized on San Francisco turnovers throughout the game. San Francisco finished with four turnovers on a night the franchise honored Hall-of-Fame receiver, Jerry Rice. Niners’ quarterback, Alex Smith, was picked off by Roman Harper in the first quarter, and Malcom Jenkins recovered a Niners’ fumble before the half. The 49ers outgained the Saints by nearly double in yards, and Smith showed glimpses of promise. Still, the Saints’ high-octane offense and tight defense was too much for Mike Singletary’s Niners. San Francisco didn’t help their cause either. Delanie Walker fumbled at the eight yard line in the second quarter, and two of Smith’s passes were deflected for interceptions deep in Saints territory. New Orleans, meanwhile, appeared in midseason form to keep the Niners winless.
Smith went 23-for-32 with 275 yards through the air. His only touchdown pass came in the second quarter, when he hit Frank Gore from 12 yards out to cut the Saints’ lead to 9-7. Gore, one of the league’s top rushers, ran for 112 yards on 20 carries. For Gore, it was the 21st time he raced for over 100 yard, breaking a franchise record. It was Anthony Dixon, the Niners backup rusher however, who scored the team’s second touchdown of the game. Dixon crossed the endzone in the third quarter to lift San Francisco to a 14-9 advantage. The Saints answered with Brees’ three-yard pass to David Thomas with less than two minutes in the third quarter to retake the lead.
Hartley notched a pair of field goals in the final quarter as New Orleans seized a 22-14 lead with 2:22 remaining in the game. Bush was carted off the field in the fourth with a leg injury after carrying the ball just five times for four yards. Smith needed just 53 seconds to move the Niners 82 yards. The eight play drive concluded with Gore’s 7 yard touchdown run with 1:19 left. The Niners went for two and Smith’s dart to Vernon Davis was overturned after an initial incompletion. At 22-22, the teams looked poised for overtime until Brees led the Saints on a 7 play drive down the field to set up the winning field goal. Hartley, who booted the game-winner against Minnesota to send the Saints to the Superbowl, barely made it through the uprights on Monday. But he did, and the Saints went on to win their second game of the season.
Parting Points: Gut feelings- The Phillies and Yankees will take their divisions.
Song of the day- “Yesterday’s Letter” by 98 degrees
Brees threw for 254 yards and a pair of scores. The 31 year old former Purdue signal caller completed 28 of 38 passes and orchestrated the game winning 51 yard drive. The Saints climbed out to a 9-0 lead in the first quarter after a Reggie Bush touchdown followed up a two point safety on the game’s third play. New Orleans capitalized on San Francisco turnovers throughout the game. San Francisco finished with four turnovers on a night the franchise honored Hall-of-Fame receiver, Jerry Rice. Niners’ quarterback, Alex Smith, was picked off by Roman Harper in the first quarter, and Malcom Jenkins recovered a Niners’ fumble before the half. The 49ers outgained the Saints by nearly double in yards, and Smith showed glimpses of promise. Still, the Saints’ high-octane offense and tight defense was too much for Mike Singletary’s Niners. San Francisco didn’t help their cause either. Delanie Walker fumbled at the eight yard line in the second quarter, and two of Smith’s passes were deflected for interceptions deep in Saints territory. New Orleans, meanwhile, appeared in midseason form to keep the Niners winless.
Smith went 23-for-32 with 275 yards through the air. His only touchdown pass came in the second quarter, when he hit Frank Gore from 12 yards out to cut the Saints’ lead to 9-7. Gore, one of the league’s top rushers, ran for 112 yards on 20 carries. For Gore, it was the 21st time he raced for over 100 yard, breaking a franchise record. It was Anthony Dixon, the Niners backup rusher however, who scored the team’s second touchdown of the game. Dixon crossed the endzone in the third quarter to lift San Francisco to a 14-9 advantage. The Saints answered with Brees’ three-yard pass to David Thomas with less than two minutes in the third quarter to retake the lead.
Hartley notched a pair of field goals in the final quarter as New Orleans seized a 22-14 lead with 2:22 remaining in the game. Bush was carted off the field in the fourth with a leg injury after carrying the ball just five times for four yards. Smith needed just 53 seconds to move the Niners 82 yards. The eight play drive concluded with Gore’s 7 yard touchdown run with 1:19 left. The Niners went for two and Smith’s dart to Vernon Davis was overturned after an initial incompletion. At 22-22, the teams looked poised for overtime until Brees led the Saints on a 7 play drive down the field to set up the winning field goal. Hartley, who booted the game-winner against Minnesota to send the Saints to the Superbowl, barely made it through the uprights on Monday. But he did, and the Saints went on to win their second game of the season.
Parting Points: Gut feelings- The Phillies and Yankees will take their divisions.
Song of the day- “Yesterday’s Letter” by 98 degrees
Monday, February 8, 2010
Super Saints' Sunday Stunner
Who 'dat? The NFL season culminated in a fantastic finale. The conclusion wasn’t one the Colts would like to savor. Miami’s Sun Life Stadium played host to Superbowl XLIV where 16-3 Indianapolis was dramatically defeated by 16-3 New Orleans. The Saints sailed away with their first championship in franchise history after a 31-17 capping of the Colts. Indianapolis was stunned in the end, despite running and protecting the football well enough throughout the contest. New Orleans quarterback, Drew Brees, tied a Superbowl record with 32 completions. He was saintly in the final three quarters, missing only three attempts. The Colts had a chance to tie the score late in the fourth quarter. Peyton Manning , the league MVP and magnificent Colts signal caller, mistakenly threw in game-altering interception on third down. Saints second year cornerback, Tracy Porter, returned the ball 74 yards the other way to shock the shaken Colts.
Indianapolis kicked off the ball the begin their quest for another Superbowl behind Manning. The Colts put up the game’s first ten points, and only tallies of the first quarter. Matt Stover legged a 38 yard field goal to complete a 53 yard, 11 play Indianapolis drive seven and a half minutes into the first quarter. The blue and white lead was increased to 10-0 following Manning’s 19 yard haul into the end zone to wideout, Pierre Garcon. Garcon was being defended by a safety in the corner slot and Manning took advantage of the matchup. The 96 yard drive was the longest in Superbowl history. Indianapolis’ injured defensive standout, Dwight Freeney, started and played most of the contest. Freeney was a disruptive force in the first half. The Pro Bowl defensive end pressured and pulled down Brees with a one-handed grab midway through the second quarter. The result was a Garrett Hartley 46 yard field goal. The Saints settled for three again before time expired in the half. Hartley knocked home his second field goal, a 44-yard straightaway boot that trimmed the New Orleans deficit to four points. Although the Colts led at the break, they held the ball for less than three minutes and went three-and-out on both possessions of the second quarter. The tide was starting to turn the New Orleans’ way.
The Who plodded together a nostalgic, but arguably awful-sounding halftime show before the most surprising and dramatic play of the Superbowl. Saints’ head coach, Sean Payton, called for an onside kick to begin the second half. New Orleans recovered the gamble when wide receiver, Hank Baskett, let the ball squirt through his hands. The risk paid off immediately for Payton and the Saints. Running back, Pierre Thomas, finished with double digit touches, and caught the first loft from Brees during the second half’s opening drive. Brees proceeded downfield, frustrating the Colts’ defense. The Saints’ cool quarterback found an open Devery Henderson for nine and five yard receptions, and hit Marques Colston on first down for a nine yard gain. Thomas scrambled up the middle for seven, and another Saints first down at the Indy 16 yard line. The stark back gave New Orleans their first lead of the game by pulling down a 16 yard touchdown pass from Brees.
Joseph Addai ignited the running game for the Colts. Indy’s ground game would eclipse that of the Saints’ 51. Addai finished with 13 carries for 77 yards and one touchdown. The seven pointer came on a divine four yard twisting rush with 6:15 remaining in the third quarter. The 10 play, 76 yard drive placed the Colts back on top by three points, but would be the last points for Indy of the night. Lance Moore made a dazzling two-point conversion catch with just under six minutes left in the game to follow up a Jeremy Shockey touchdown grab. The former Giants tight end heaved in a two yard pass from Brees and the two-point conversation provided the Saints a seven point advantage. Colston led all Saints with 83 receiving yards. He shook off a rough first quarter to come up with big gains. Reggie Bush, the former USC tailback, was also a key factor in the win for New Orleans. Neither Bush nor Colston scored, but they kept the chains moving down the stretch. Indy’s defense failed to tackle and make plays throughout the second half. Brees’ arm was on fire and most deservedly the game’s MVP. The man behind center for the Saints completed 32 of 39 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns. Manning went 31 of 45 for 33 yards, a touchdown and an interception. Manning was poised to set up a tying touchdown with under five minutes in the game. He completed to Garcon for 17 yards and twice found Reggie Wayne to give the Colts a chance at the New Orleans’ 36 yard line. Coverage ace and unsung hero, Porter, snagged the pick that eventually sent the Saints to their 31-17 victory. Manning again led the charge as the Colts tried to manufacture a late touchdown. Wayne dropped a fourth down pass at the goal line to seal the loss for Indianapolis. Wayne had five catches for 46 yards, and Dallas Clark finished in with a team high 86 yards on 7 receptions. The finely-tuned aerial passing attack just didn’t work for Manning last night. The Saints were the better team, coming up big in big situations. Brees’ quick release and route reads were nearly impeccable Sunday night. Both quarterbacks were the central part of the outcome. The impenitent Indy team that won 14 straight games under Jim Caldwell was stopped by a more determined and efficient football club from New Orleans.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “When the Saints go Marching in”
Indianapolis kicked off the ball the begin their quest for another Superbowl behind Manning. The Colts put up the game’s first ten points, and only tallies of the first quarter. Matt Stover legged a 38 yard field goal to complete a 53 yard, 11 play Indianapolis drive seven and a half minutes into the first quarter. The blue and white lead was increased to 10-0 following Manning’s 19 yard haul into the end zone to wideout, Pierre Garcon. Garcon was being defended by a safety in the corner slot and Manning took advantage of the matchup. The 96 yard drive was the longest in Superbowl history. Indianapolis’ injured defensive standout, Dwight Freeney, started and played most of the contest. Freeney was a disruptive force in the first half. The Pro Bowl defensive end pressured and pulled down Brees with a one-handed grab midway through the second quarter. The result was a Garrett Hartley 46 yard field goal. The Saints settled for three again before time expired in the half. Hartley knocked home his second field goal, a 44-yard straightaway boot that trimmed the New Orleans deficit to four points. Although the Colts led at the break, they held the ball for less than three minutes and went three-and-out on both possessions of the second quarter. The tide was starting to turn the New Orleans’ way.
The Who plodded together a nostalgic, but arguably awful-sounding halftime show before the most surprising and dramatic play of the Superbowl. Saints’ head coach, Sean Payton, called for an onside kick to begin the second half. New Orleans recovered the gamble when wide receiver, Hank Baskett, let the ball squirt through his hands. The risk paid off immediately for Payton and the Saints. Running back, Pierre Thomas, finished with double digit touches, and caught the first loft from Brees during the second half’s opening drive. Brees proceeded downfield, frustrating the Colts’ defense. The Saints’ cool quarterback found an open Devery Henderson for nine and five yard receptions, and hit Marques Colston on first down for a nine yard gain. Thomas scrambled up the middle for seven, and another Saints first down at the Indy 16 yard line. The stark back gave New Orleans their first lead of the game by pulling down a 16 yard touchdown pass from Brees.
Joseph Addai ignited the running game for the Colts. Indy’s ground game would eclipse that of the Saints’ 51. Addai finished with 13 carries for 77 yards and one touchdown. The seven pointer came on a divine four yard twisting rush with 6:15 remaining in the third quarter. The 10 play, 76 yard drive placed the Colts back on top by three points, but would be the last points for Indy of the night. Lance Moore made a dazzling two-point conversion catch with just under six minutes left in the game to follow up a Jeremy Shockey touchdown grab. The former Giants tight end heaved in a two yard pass from Brees and the two-point conversation provided the Saints a seven point advantage. Colston led all Saints with 83 receiving yards. He shook off a rough first quarter to come up with big gains. Reggie Bush, the former USC tailback, was also a key factor in the win for New Orleans. Neither Bush nor Colston scored, but they kept the chains moving down the stretch. Indy’s defense failed to tackle and make plays throughout the second half. Brees’ arm was on fire and most deservedly the game’s MVP. The man behind center for the Saints completed 32 of 39 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns. Manning went 31 of 45 for 33 yards, a touchdown and an interception. Manning was poised to set up a tying touchdown with under five minutes in the game. He completed to Garcon for 17 yards and twice found Reggie Wayne to give the Colts a chance at the New Orleans’ 36 yard line. Coverage ace and unsung hero, Porter, snagged the pick that eventually sent the Saints to their 31-17 victory. Manning again led the charge as the Colts tried to manufacture a late touchdown. Wayne dropped a fourth down pass at the goal line to seal the loss for Indianapolis. Wayne had five catches for 46 yards, and Dallas Clark finished in with a team high 86 yards on 7 receptions. The finely-tuned aerial passing attack just didn’t work for Manning last night. The Saints were the better team, coming up big in big situations. Brees’ quick release and route reads were nearly impeccable Sunday night. Both quarterbacks were the central part of the outcome. The impenitent Indy team that won 14 straight games under Jim Caldwell was stopped by a more determined and efficient football club from New Orleans.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “When the Saints go Marching in”
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Streaking Saints Stopped Short
The Dallas Cowboys had everything to gain and lose Saturday. A loss to the undefeated Saints in the Superdome would further diminish their slim playoff chances. A win would keep their post-season hopes alive and summon them the first team to beat New Orleans this season. Dallas delivered a defeat dramatically to dash the Saints, tarnish their record and stop their winning streak. The Saints were handed their first loss of the year after falling short at midfield in the final minute. Defensive standout, DeMarcus Ware, sacked New Orleans quarterback, Drew Brees at the Dallas 48 yard line with .12 second left. Brees fumbled the football and the Cowboys recovered to seal the 24-17 victory. New Orleans is now 13-1. The Indianapolis Colts are the only team with an unblemished record in 2009. The Cowboys are 9-5 overall and improved to 4-3 on the road.
Dallas ended a two game skid and built and early 14-0 lead. The Cowboys scored on their first two possessions of the game. Tony Romo, the 29 year old quarterback, put a halt to the Cowboys’ recent December swoon. Romo burned the Saints with a 49 yard touchdown pass to a streaking Miles Austin down the left sideline for the early 7-0 Dallas advantage. Miles led all receivers with 7 receptions for 139 yards and eclipsed 1,000 yards with his first half grab. Marion Barber scored on a three yard rushing touchdown to make it a two touchdown lead for the visiting team before the end of the first quarter. Romo threw for 312 yards and one touchdown. He also ran for 21 yards and went without an interception as the Dallas offense finally stepped up the challenge. Wade Phillips’ defense also rose to the occasion, holding New Orleans to one first down in the opening quarter.
The second quarter wasn’t much better for Brees and the unbeaten Saints. Brees threw a pick and fumbled the ball as New Orleans fell behind 17-3 at the break. The Saints pieced together a 75 yard drive in the middle of the second quarter. Garrett Hartley drilled a 34 yard field goal to provide the only Saints points in the first half. New Orleans’ NFC East opponents added a field goal when Nick Folk notched one from 44 yards with .4 seconds before halftime.
The Cowboys overcame some penalties and poor kicking in the second half to withstand the suddenly emerging Saints. New Orleans held the Cowboys scoreless the last 23 minutes of Saturday’s contest. Barber’s second touchdown of the day increased the Dallas lead to 21. The Cowboys’ pass rush continued to apply pressure and stymie the high octane Brees-led offense. The offense used a nice balance of run-pass plays to put the early dagger in the hosts’ hopes for perfection. Still, the comeback Saints put up a pair of scores in the final quarter. Brees found David Thomas for 13 and 18 yard completions to set up Mike Bell’s one yard touchdown run. Lance Moore lifted the Saints on their next possession. Moore caught a seven yard pass on a three minute drive to cut New Orleans’ deficit to 24-17 with eight minutes remaining. Brees finished with 298 yards through the air.
The Superdome crowd lit up when Folk missed an easy 24 yard field that would have put the game away for Dallas shortly before the two minute warning. Brees had one last crack at preserving an undefeated season for the Saints, but the Big D’s defense held strong. Ware stuffed Brees for a six yard loss and sent the packed Superdome fans home silent. Sean Payton’s Saints couldn’t get anything going early on and the Dallas lead was too much to overcome, even for the MVP-caliber quarterback Brees. Romo was highly efficient and hit his receivers when he needed to most. The visiting offense was 8-of-15 on third downs. The home team converted just one of seven third downs. Dallas relied on the depth of their offense to overpower the highest scoring NFL team. Romo used nine different receivers during his 22 completion night. The Cowboys also dominated time of possession while getting dominant performances from key players. Second year cornerbacks, Orlando Scandrick and Michael Jenkins, had seven and four tackles, respectively. Linebacker Anthony Spencer and Ware both picked up a pair of sacks and the offense outgained New Orleans 439 to 336 in yards. Marques Colston secured a handful of receptions for 86 yards. Thomas hauled in eight for 77 more, but the Saints struggled to move the ball the entire game. This Saturday wasn’t the Saints’ lucky day. Devery Henderson dropped a potential touchdown pass, and tailback, Reggie Bush, pulled up lame for an early exit. Dallas ended the Saints’ run at perfection by playing a near perfect game on the road in late December. Just like the 2009 Saints losing, that rarely happens.
Parting Points: My New Mexico Bowl prediction was entirely off. I guess this is why I don’t bet money on sports.
Band of the day- Toad the Wet Sprocket
Dallas ended a two game skid and built and early 14-0 lead. The Cowboys scored on their first two possessions of the game. Tony Romo, the 29 year old quarterback, put a halt to the Cowboys’ recent December swoon. Romo burned the Saints with a 49 yard touchdown pass to a streaking Miles Austin down the left sideline for the early 7-0 Dallas advantage. Miles led all receivers with 7 receptions for 139 yards and eclipsed 1,000 yards with his first half grab. Marion Barber scored on a three yard rushing touchdown to make it a two touchdown lead for the visiting team before the end of the first quarter. Romo threw for 312 yards and one touchdown. He also ran for 21 yards and went without an interception as the Dallas offense finally stepped up the challenge. Wade Phillips’ defense also rose to the occasion, holding New Orleans to one first down in the opening quarter.
The second quarter wasn’t much better for Brees and the unbeaten Saints. Brees threw a pick and fumbled the ball as New Orleans fell behind 17-3 at the break. The Saints pieced together a 75 yard drive in the middle of the second quarter. Garrett Hartley drilled a 34 yard field goal to provide the only Saints points in the first half. New Orleans’ NFC East opponents added a field goal when Nick Folk notched one from 44 yards with .4 seconds before halftime.
The Cowboys overcame some penalties and poor kicking in the second half to withstand the suddenly emerging Saints. New Orleans held the Cowboys scoreless the last 23 minutes of Saturday’s contest. Barber’s second touchdown of the day increased the Dallas lead to 21. The Cowboys’ pass rush continued to apply pressure and stymie the high octane Brees-led offense. The offense used a nice balance of run-pass plays to put the early dagger in the hosts’ hopes for perfection. Still, the comeback Saints put up a pair of scores in the final quarter. Brees found David Thomas for 13 and 18 yard completions to set up Mike Bell’s one yard touchdown run. Lance Moore lifted the Saints on their next possession. Moore caught a seven yard pass on a three minute drive to cut New Orleans’ deficit to 24-17 with eight minutes remaining. Brees finished with 298 yards through the air.
The Superdome crowd lit up when Folk missed an easy 24 yard field that would have put the game away for Dallas shortly before the two minute warning. Brees had one last crack at preserving an undefeated season for the Saints, but the Big D’s defense held strong. Ware stuffed Brees for a six yard loss and sent the packed Superdome fans home silent. Sean Payton’s Saints couldn’t get anything going early on and the Dallas lead was too much to overcome, even for the MVP-caliber quarterback Brees. Romo was highly efficient and hit his receivers when he needed to most. The visiting offense was 8-of-15 on third downs. The home team converted just one of seven third downs. Dallas relied on the depth of their offense to overpower the highest scoring NFL team. Romo used nine different receivers during his 22 completion night. The Cowboys also dominated time of possession while getting dominant performances from key players. Second year cornerbacks, Orlando Scandrick and Michael Jenkins, had seven and four tackles, respectively. Linebacker Anthony Spencer and Ware both picked up a pair of sacks and the offense outgained New Orleans 439 to 336 in yards. Marques Colston secured a handful of receptions for 86 yards. Thomas hauled in eight for 77 more, but the Saints struggled to move the ball the entire game. This Saturday wasn’t the Saints’ lucky day. Devery Henderson dropped a potential touchdown pass, and tailback, Reggie Bush, pulled up lame for an early exit. Dallas ended the Saints’ run at perfection by playing a near perfect game on the road in late December. Just like the 2009 Saints losing, that rarely happens.
Parting Points: My New Mexico Bowl prediction was entirely off. I guess this is why I don’t bet money on sports.
Band of the day- Toad the Wet Sprocket
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Saints Sail Smoothly with Solid Superdome Show
Drew Brees continues to solidify the Saints as Superbowl favorites. New Orleans hosted the New England Patriots Monday night in the most intriguing game of week 12 in the NFL. The Saints pursuit of perfection remained in tack following a 38-17 takedown of the AFC East leading Patriots. New Orleans ran their record to 11-0 and by far the best team in their division. Atlanta sits second in the NFC South with a 6-5 record. The Saints have a chance to run the table and are five victories away from matching the 2007 Patriots perfect record. They demolished that same team in Monday night football thanks to another stellar showing by the signal caller. Brees’ impressive season-high 371 yards helped add to his MVP campaign. The 30 year old quarterback outplayed Tom Brady in the Patriots’ first trip to the Superdome since the Superbowl. Brees carved up Bill Belichick’s defense with five touchdown passes, all tossed to different receivers. Brady left Monday night’s contest a loser and threw a pair of interceptions. He did surpass Drew Bledsoe’s mark in the third quarter to become New England’s all-time leading passer. The Patriots fell to 7-4 and still have a sizeable and comfortable lead in their division.
John Carney’s 30 yard field goal in the first quarter put the home team on the scoreboard first in front of the second largest crowd to ever attend a Saints game at the Superdome. Pats’ running back, Laurence Maroney pounded in for seven on a fourth-and-one play to give New England a 7-3 lead. Cornerback, Mike McKenzie, in his 2009 Saints debut, intercepted Brady pass intended for Randy Moss to end the first quarter. The pick in New Orleans territory set up the Saints first touchdown of the night. Pierre Thomas caught a Brees screen spiral and scrambled for the 18 yard touchdown. Thomas lead the Saints in rushing with 11 carries for 64 yards, and is tied with Robert Meachem for the team lead with seven touchdowns. The touchdown department was in full in the second quarter last night. The Saints went on to score two more touchdowns to take a 24-10 lead into the locker room at the half. Brees connected with Devery Henderson a 75 yard hookup. The one-play, nine-second drive was the longest play from scrimmage for New Orleans this year. Henderson finished with a season high three receptions for 116 yards. It was his seventh 100 receiving yard day of the season, and seventh of his career. The Saints deep receiving corps and committee of gifted backs has them playing outstanding football into December.
Brady drove the Patriots all the way to the New Orleans 18 yard line following Henderson’s long grab from Brees. New England settled for a field goal to pull within a touchdown. Special teams star, Courtney Roby returned Stephen Gostkowski’s 72 yard kick 26 yards to the New Orleans 24. Brees drove the Saints into Patriots territory just before the two minute warning. The solid signal caller completed a 25 yard pass to David Thomas for a Saints first down with under a minute in the half. Meachem reeled in a 38 yard score for his fifth touchdown in the last four games.
Maroney’s two yard touchdown run in the third quarter finished the scoring for Monday night on the New England side. It was all Saints from that point on. Darnell Dinkins delivered the Saints fourth touchdown with 9:02 remaining in the third. It was the former Pittsburgh tight end’s lone reception, but it was good for seven New Orleans points. Brees spread the ball around in the one-sided second half, and extended his own franchise record with his 29th 300 yard passing game. After going three-and-out on their first possession of the final quarter, Brady was intercepted again, but not before Brees snagged his fifth touchdown. This time, the MVP candidate launched a 20 yard pass to Marques Colston on a second-and-five. Veteran safety Darren Sharper was the recipient of Brady’s second miscue. Sharper and the Saints kept Brady in check throughout the night. Defensive end, Will Smith, had four tackles and was credited with 1.5 sacks. Smith is one-half sack shy of his career high 10.5 set three years ago. Carney missed a 37 yard field goal in the middle of the fourth quarter. Brian Hoyer relieved Brady after the miss, but the backup quarterback was unable to put anything together. Hoyer was sacked on the final play of the game for an eight yard New England loss and crushing road defeat.
Parting Points: Song to start December- “All Cried Out” by All Saints
Fond farewell exit to Bobby Bowden and RIP to the Yankees’ “Old Reliable”
John Carney’s 30 yard field goal in the first quarter put the home team on the scoreboard first in front of the second largest crowd to ever attend a Saints game at the Superdome. Pats’ running back, Laurence Maroney pounded in for seven on a fourth-and-one play to give New England a 7-3 lead. Cornerback, Mike McKenzie, in his 2009 Saints debut, intercepted Brady pass intended for Randy Moss to end the first quarter. The pick in New Orleans territory set up the Saints first touchdown of the night. Pierre Thomas caught a Brees screen spiral and scrambled for the 18 yard touchdown. Thomas lead the Saints in rushing with 11 carries for 64 yards, and is tied with Robert Meachem for the team lead with seven touchdowns. The touchdown department was in full in the second quarter last night. The Saints went on to score two more touchdowns to take a 24-10 lead into the locker room at the half. Brees connected with Devery Henderson a 75 yard hookup. The one-play, nine-second drive was the longest play from scrimmage for New Orleans this year. Henderson finished with a season high three receptions for 116 yards. It was his seventh 100 receiving yard day of the season, and seventh of his career. The Saints deep receiving corps and committee of gifted backs has them playing outstanding football into December.
Brady drove the Patriots all the way to the New Orleans 18 yard line following Henderson’s long grab from Brees. New England settled for a field goal to pull within a touchdown. Special teams star, Courtney Roby returned Stephen Gostkowski’s 72 yard kick 26 yards to the New Orleans 24. Brees drove the Saints into Patriots territory just before the two minute warning. The solid signal caller completed a 25 yard pass to David Thomas for a Saints first down with under a minute in the half. Meachem reeled in a 38 yard score for his fifth touchdown in the last four games.
Maroney’s two yard touchdown run in the third quarter finished the scoring for Monday night on the New England side. It was all Saints from that point on. Darnell Dinkins delivered the Saints fourth touchdown with 9:02 remaining in the third. It was the former Pittsburgh tight end’s lone reception, but it was good for seven New Orleans points. Brees spread the ball around in the one-sided second half, and extended his own franchise record with his 29th 300 yard passing game. After going three-and-out on their first possession of the final quarter, Brady was intercepted again, but not before Brees snagged his fifth touchdown. This time, the MVP candidate launched a 20 yard pass to Marques Colston on a second-and-five. Veteran safety Darren Sharper was the recipient of Brady’s second miscue. Sharper and the Saints kept Brady in check throughout the night. Defensive end, Will Smith, had four tackles and was credited with 1.5 sacks. Smith is one-half sack shy of his career high 10.5 set three years ago. Carney missed a 37 yard field goal in the middle of the fourth quarter. Brian Hoyer relieved Brady after the miss, but the backup quarterback was unable to put anything together. Hoyer was sacked on the final play of the game for an eight yard New England loss and crushing road defeat.
Parting Points: Song to start December- “All Cried Out” by All Saints
Fond farewell exit to Bobby Bowden and RIP to the Yankees’ “Old Reliable”
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Peyton's Place Perfect
The New Orleans Saints remained one of two perfect NFL teams by downing the Atlanta Falcons 35-27 in Monday night football. Head coach, Sean Payton, watched his team triumph over a sloppy offensive game to defeat their neighborly rivals. Saints quarterback, Drew Brees, was responsible for 308 passing yards and two scores. His exactness and resistance to pressure is astounding, and Brees has the ability to throw into double and triple coverage. It rarely leads to interceptions. However, Brees was picked off twice in the winning effort Monday, as New Orleans overcame four team turnovers. The 7-0 Saints outscored Atlanta 21-0 in the second quarter after falling behind early in the first. Michael Turner rushed for 151 yards for Atlanta, including a 13 yard scamper to open the game. Pierre Thomas answered by reaching the end zone from 22 yards out after an 80 yard, ten play Saints drive. Thomas’ extraordinary ball-handling was put on temporary hold in the final quarter. The Falcons defense stripped Thomas on a third and one play. Stephen Nichols’ fumble recovery was challenged but the ruling was upheld, handing Atlanta the ball. Thomas zoomed into the end zone when the Saints regained possession clinging to a four point lead. The one yard screen pass from Brees put New Orleans on top 35-24 with 3:03 left in regulation. The Falcons Matt Ryan had three more chances to lead Atlanta down the field. The Falcons came up empty on fourth and ten when Ryan’s pass to Roddy White was incomplete. Following a three and out by the Saints, Ryan found Tony Gonzalez and Michael Jenkins to secure two more first downs. Atlanta fell short of the endzone, settling for three points on Jason Elam’s 40 yard field goal. The Falcons recovered the onside kick with .28 seconds left in the game. Ryan was intercepted by Darren Sharper at the New Orleans 49 yard line to preserve the home team’s undefeated season.
John Carney missed a third quarter 37 yard field goal and his field goal leg was a nonfactor for the Saints, who did the majority of their scoring in the second quarter. Brees was 25 for 33 through the air, and New Orleans massacred the Falcons just before the half. The New Orleans signal caller hit Marques Coltson with an 18 yard pass to even the score at 14-14 in the second quarter. Former Heisman Trophy winner, Reggie Bush, scored on a one-yard rush to give the Saints their first lead of the night. Jabari Green intercepted Ryan and returned the ball 48 yards for a touchdown with under a minute left in the half. The Saints headed to the locker room ahead by two scores. The fighting Falcons would not give up. Atlanta scored the only points by any team in the third quarter on a 68 yarder from Ryan to White. The three play drive pulled the Falcons to within seven points, and the defense held New Orleans scoreless through the rest of the third quarter. Elam legged a 25 yard field goal after a 70 yard 6:45 Falcons drive to open the fourth. The Saints held strong and ran out the clock, setting up Thomas’ second touchdown. The Falcons never recaptured the lead and finished with their third loss of 2009.
Winning has become a mere formality for the gritty Saints. Their defense is a force in stopping the Falcons in the Superdome last night. Payton’s Saints are 7-0 for the first time in the club’s 43 year history. The big-play, tenacious defense was superb even after allowing the Falcons to gain 442 yards. The Saints fended off nine passes and recorded three sacks and interceptions. Sharper and Tracy Porter prevented potential fourth quarter gains by Atlanta. The Saints defensive backfield is one of the best in the NFL. New Orleans has scored six defensive touchdowns this year. The underrated unit has tallied at least two turnovers in each of their first seven contests. New Orleans pressures quarterbacks into making errant throws. The offense is able to capitalize on the opportunities afforded by the stout defense. Payton is quickly fortifying the Saints and cementing his place in the NFL coaching circles with a perfect season.
Parting Points: “Lay aside immaturity and walk in the way of insight”
Everybody should pick up the Foo Fighters’ greatest hits album out today. They are arguably one of the best rock bands of the last decade.
The Phillies sure figured out A.J. Burnett last night. Philadelphia jumped on Burnett early in the count and attacked pitches out of the zone with success. I hope Pettitte’s reputation as a big game playoff pitcher is vindicated tomorrow night.
If I have to see Chase Utley leave the yard one more time this week, I am going to be sick.
John Carney missed a third quarter 37 yard field goal and his field goal leg was a nonfactor for the Saints, who did the majority of their scoring in the second quarter. Brees was 25 for 33 through the air, and New Orleans massacred the Falcons just before the half. The New Orleans signal caller hit Marques Coltson with an 18 yard pass to even the score at 14-14 in the second quarter. Former Heisman Trophy winner, Reggie Bush, scored on a one-yard rush to give the Saints their first lead of the night. Jabari Green intercepted Ryan and returned the ball 48 yards for a touchdown with under a minute left in the half. The Saints headed to the locker room ahead by two scores. The fighting Falcons would not give up. Atlanta scored the only points by any team in the third quarter on a 68 yarder from Ryan to White. The three play drive pulled the Falcons to within seven points, and the defense held New Orleans scoreless through the rest of the third quarter. Elam legged a 25 yard field goal after a 70 yard 6:45 Falcons drive to open the fourth. The Saints held strong and ran out the clock, setting up Thomas’ second touchdown. The Falcons never recaptured the lead and finished with their third loss of 2009.
Winning has become a mere formality for the gritty Saints. Their defense is a force in stopping the Falcons in the Superdome last night. Payton’s Saints are 7-0 for the first time in the club’s 43 year history. The big-play, tenacious defense was superb even after allowing the Falcons to gain 442 yards. The Saints fended off nine passes and recorded three sacks and interceptions. Sharper and Tracy Porter prevented potential fourth quarter gains by Atlanta. The Saints defensive backfield is one of the best in the NFL. New Orleans has scored six defensive touchdowns this year. The underrated unit has tallied at least two turnovers in each of their first seven contests. New Orleans pressures quarterbacks into making errant throws. The offense is able to capitalize on the opportunities afforded by the stout defense. Payton is quickly fortifying the Saints and cementing his place in the NFL coaching circles with a perfect season.
Parting Points: “Lay aside immaturity and walk in the way of insight”
Everybody should pick up the Foo Fighters’ greatest hits album out today. They are arguably one of the best rock bands of the last decade.
The Phillies sure figured out A.J. Burnett last night. Philadelphia jumped on Burnett early in the count and attacked pitches out of the zone with success. I hope Pettitte’s reputation as a big game playoff pitcher is vindicated tomorrow night.
If I have to see Chase Utley leave the yard one more time this week, I am going to be sick.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Big Bayou Blues
Oh, those Sleeping Giants.
Eli Manning’s homecoming was ruined Sunday when the undefeated New York Giants lost 48-27 to the flawless New Orleans Saints. It was Manning’s first game in the Superdome and he was torched by Drew Brees and the hometown Saints. The Saints matched their best start in 16 years by throttling Big Blue in a meeting of two of the NFC ‘s elite offenses. New York came into the game winners of five straight, giving up an average of 14 points per game. The swarming Saints defense prevented Manning from dictating the tempo of his offense, but it was the stout offensive line that significantly thrived for New Orleans. The Saints scored 34 points by halftime, and Brees was on his way to an over-300 passing yard afternoon. New Orleans compiled 133 yards on the ground. The Giants were held to just 84 rushing yards, a season low. Yesterday, Sean Payton’s Saints made a statement, took care of business against a great team, and stamped themselves a Superbowl favorite this winter.
Brees is a top-flight quarterback, and was nothing short of spectacular against the Giants’ league-leading defense. Running back, Pierre Thomas, lead the way in the backfield. Thomas rushed for 72 of the Saints’ 133 yards on the ground. Emboldened by the stellar offense, the Saints’ defense also stepped up to contribute, clobber and squander any Giants chances. The defense disarmed Manning, allowing the Big Blue signal caller just 14 completions on 31 attempts for 178 yards. Manning connected with wide receiver, Mario Manningham before the half on a 15 yard toss through the air. Manningham’s touchdown reception cut the Giant deficit to ten points. New York didn’t make it to the midpoint down by ten, however. It took the 2005 Heisman Trophy winner, Reggie Bush, seven yards to increase the Saints lead to 34-17. The Giants scored their only other touchdown late in the fourth quarter, but it didn’t come from the arm of their star quarterback. Backup slinger, David Carr, chipped a 37 yarder to Hakeen Nicks with 3:15 left in regulation and the game all but over.
Former Giant tight end, Jeremy Shockey, got a bit of revenge against his former team when he paraded into the endzone for the Saints first touchdown. Shockey was followed by Robert Meachum, Lance Moore and Marques Colston. All four New Orleans players were credited with touchdowns. Colston caught eight passes for 166 yards to lead all receivers. Moore and Meachum, the monstrous duo, both had over 70 yards receiving as well. Brees’ passing attack demoralized the New York defense and caused the secondary fits the entire game. The overwhelmed their opponent in perhaps the most impressive showing in Saints history. A vintage Brees revived his MVP campaign and showed no signs or symptoms of a bye week without football. Seven Saints scored touchdowns, so it was a team effort. The defense won the turnover battle while offense marched down the field and scored on their first four possessions. Brees completed 15 consecutive passes. It felt as if the Giants were on an entirely different level and playing a team out of their league. The home team offense was unstoppable. New Orleans was so confident the Giants were never able to gain or shift momentum the Big Blue way. Even after New York stuffed Thomas on the one-yard line, the defense responded. Safety, Roman Harper, sacked Manning, forcing Scott Shanle’s fumble recovery. Safety Darren Sharper also picked off Manning, but his pick-six was called back on a penalty. Cornerback Jabari Greer intercepted Manning, reeling in a third quarter turnover to set up another Saints touchdown. Whenever Eli tried to go deep, New Orleans’ rush attack stopped him. The secondary for the Saints made big plays and tantalizing hits. It all added up to the Saints fifth straight double-digit win. They have outscored opponents 192-93 in 2009. The quarterback plays extremely well, and that is enough for New Orleans to be difficult to defend. As for New York, it was not a good football Sunday. The Jets bowed to Buffalo in overtime, and the Giants got steamrolled in the Bayou.
Parting Points: Jeter clocked a leadoff homerun just now in Game 3 of the ALDS. The captain is something else. Let’s be optimistic Andy Pettitte will suffice.
Eli Manning’s homecoming was ruined Sunday when the undefeated New York Giants lost 48-27 to the flawless New Orleans Saints. It was Manning’s first game in the Superdome and he was torched by Drew Brees and the hometown Saints. The Saints matched their best start in 16 years by throttling Big Blue in a meeting of two of the NFC ‘s elite offenses. New York came into the game winners of five straight, giving up an average of 14 points per game. The swarming Saints defense prevented Manning from dictating the tempo of his offense, but it was the stout offensive line that significantly thrived for New Orleans. The Saints scored 34 points by halftime, and Brees was on his way to an over-300 passing yard afternoon. New Orleans compiled 133 yards on the ground. The Giants were held to just 84 rushing yards, a season low. Yesterday, Sean Payton’s Saints made a statement, took care of business against a great team, and stamped themselves a Superbowl favorite this winter.
Brees is a top-flight quarterback, and was nothing short of spectacular against the Giants’ league-leading defense. Running back, Pierre Thomas, lead the way in the backfield. Thomas rushed for 72 of the Saints’ 133 yards on the ground. Emboldened by the stellar offense, the Saints’ defense also stepped up to contribute, clobber and squander any Giants chances. The defense disarmed Manning, allowing the Big Blue signal caller just 14 completions on 31 attempts for 178 yards. Manning connected with wide receiver, Mario Manningham before the half on a 15 yard toss through the air. Manningham’s touchdown reception cut the Giant deficit to ten points. New York didn’t make it to the midpoint down by ten, however. It took the 2005 Heisman Trophy winner, Reggie Bush, seven yards to increase the Saints lead to 34-17. The Giants scored their only other touchdown late in the fourth quarter, but it didn’t come from the arm of their star quarterback. Backup slinger, David Carr, chipped a 37 yarder to Hakeen Nicks with 3:15 left in regulation and the game all but over.
Former Giant tight end, Jeremy Shockey, got a bit of revenge against his former team when he paraded into the endzone for the Saints first touchdown. Shockey was followed by Robert Meachum, Lance Moore and Marques Colston. All four New Orleans players were credited with touchdowns. Colston caught eight passes for 166 yards to lead all receivers. Moore and Meachum, the monstrous duo, both had over 70 yards receiving as well. Brees’ passing attack demoralized the New York defense and caused the secondary fits the entire game. The overwhelmed their opponent in perhaps the most impressive showing in Saints history. A vintage Brees revived his MVP campaign and showed no signs or symptoms of a bye week without football. Seven Saints scored touchdowns, so it was a team effort. The defense won the turnover battle while offense marched down the field and scored on their first four possessions. Brees completed 15 consecutive passes. It felt as if the Giants were on an entirely different level and playing a team out of their league. The home team offense was unstoppable. New Orleans was so confident the Giants were never able to gain or shift momentum the Big Blue way. Even after New York stuffed Thomas on the one-yard line, the defense responded. Safety, Roman Harper, sacked Manning, forcing Scott Shanle’s fumble recovery. Safety Darren Sharper also picked off Manning, but his pick-six was called back on a penalty. Cornerback Jabari Greer intercepted Manning, reeling in a third quarter turnover to set up another Saints touchdown. Whenever Eli tried to go deep, New Orleans’ rush attack stopped him. The secondary for the Saints made big plays and tantalizing hits. It all added up to the Saints fifth straight double-digit win. They have outscored opponents 192-93 in 2009. The quarterback plays extremely well, and that is enough for New Orleans to be difficult to defend. As for New York, it was not a good football Sunday. The Jets bowed to Buffalo in overtime, and the Giants got steamrolled in the Bayou.
Parting Points: Jeter clocked a leadoff homerun just now in Game 3 of the ALDS. The captain is something else. Let’s be optimistic Andy Pettitte will suffice.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Saints Smother Sanchez
It took four weeks, but somebody finally zapped the energy and exposed the indolent inertia of the New York Jets. The sluggish Jets were outmatched and outclassed, but should not be completely disappointed with their Sunday setback against the New Orleans Saints. New York was winning with uninterrupted, improbable frequency until they came across the stifling Saints. The 24-10 trouncing featured the only game between unbeaten teams in the NFL. The Jets’ defense did their part in holding Drew Brees and the high-octane Saints’ offense to 190 passing yards and no touchdowns. They kept the league’s best offense from scoring more than 10 points. New York also exhibited exceptional downfield coverage and stopped the Saints twice on fourth down attempts.
The first offensive touchdown scored by New Orleans occurred with just over six minutes left in the game. Pierre Thomas squirted into the endzone from one yard out to give the Saints added insurance and a 14 point lead. The Jets were within a touchdown after a third quarter 15 yard rush by Thomas Jones. The 31 year old Virginia running back carried the ball 13 times for 48 yards and a touchdown against a relentless New Orleans defense. The Saints showed they are not just a one-dimensional force. The persistent punchers from the Bayou caused fits all day for the visiting quarterback, Mark Sanchez. The rookie was picked off three times and went without a touchdown pass in his first look at the Saints. The less-heralded defense provided the Saints an early advantage. Veteran safety and active leader in career interceptions, Darren Sharper, made it a 10-0 contest when he intercepted Sanchez in the second quarter. Sharper returned his 59th career interception 99 yards for a touchdown. The USC quarterback permitted the Saints to score 14 points off his blunders. Will Smith forced a fumble and sacked the Jets’ signalcaller twice. Aydoele, a nose tackle of all people, forced a fumble, and Charles grant had five tackles and a pair of sacks. Ayodele’s fumble recovery for a touchdown came within minutes of Sharper’s terrific trip to the end of the turf.
Sanchez is the Jets’ franchise quarterback. So far, he’s lived up to, if not exceeded, expectations. Sunday in New Orleans, number six completed 14 of his 27 passes. He tossed for 138 yards, including the ill-advised throws resulting in interceptions. Mark’s ball security is severely lacking, and New York needs to address the problem before his mistakes cost the Jets more games. He may not yet be road tested, and granted facing the unbeaten Saints, he had to be pretty perfect. Sanchez was much less than textbook quarterback against the NFC South’s top team. But the former Trojan has still proved he can play with the big boys in the NFL. Sanchez can take the blame for helping the Jets lose this game. He can’t take all the heat though. The Saints’ brilliant defense deserves most of the credit for the Sunday snubbing. When Drew Brees isn’t the main star of a Saints’ game, you know the team played well. New Orleans wasn’t great on short yardage situations. Rex Ryan didn’t employ or utilize a heavy blitz as I expected. Whatever they did seemed to work in most defending situations. It makes you wonder what the outcome would have been if Sanchez found his own receivers instead of the men wearing gold, black and white. The Saints are coming up on a tender part of their schedule. Look for them to keep winning.
Parting Points: The Giants play the Saints in two weeks. Will Eli’s leg be up for the game?
The first offensive touchdown scored by New Orleans occurred with just over six minutes left in the game. Pierre Thomas squirted into the endzone from one yard out to give the Saints added insurance and a 14 point lead. The Jets were within a touchdown after a third quarter 15 yard rush by Thomas Jones. The 31 year old Virginia running back carried the ball 13 times for 48 yards and a touchdown against a relentless New Orleans defense. The Saints showed they are not just a one-dimensional force. The persistent punchers from the Bayou caused fits all day for the visiting quarterback, Mark Sanchez. The rookie was picked off three times and went without a touchdown pass in his first look at the Saints. The less-heralded defense provided the Saints an early advantage. Veteran safety and active leader in career interceptions, Darren Sharper, made it a 10-0 contest when he intercepted Sanchez in the second quarter. Sharper returned his 59th career interception 99 yards for a touchdown. The USC quarterback permitted the Saints to score 14 points off his blunders. Will Smith forced a fumble and sacked the Jets’ signalcaller twice. Aydoele, a nose tackle of all people, forced a fumble, and Charles grant had five tackles and a pair of sacks. Ayodele’s fumble recovery for a touchdown came within minutes of Sharper’s terrific trip to the end of the turf.
Sanchez is the Jets’ franchise quarterback. So far, he’s lived up to, if not exceeded, expectations. Sunday in New Orleans, number six completed 14 of his 27 passes. He tossed for 138 yards, including the ill-advised throws resulting in interceptions. Mark’s ball security is severely lacking, and New York needs to address the problem before his mistakes cost the Jets more games. He may not yet be road tested, and granted facing the unbeaten Saints, he had to be pretty perfect. Sanchez was much less than textbook quarterback against the NFC South’s top team. But the former Trojan has still proved he can play with the big boys in the NFL. Sanchez can take the blame for helping the Jets lose this game. He can’t take all the heat though. The Saints’ brilliant defense deserves most of the credit for the Sunday snubbing. When Drew Brees isn’t the main star of a Saints’ game, you know the team played well. New Orleans wasn’t great on short yardage situations. Rex Ryan didn’t employ or utilize a heavy blitz as I expected. Whatever they did seemed to work in most defending situations. It makes you wonder what the outcome would have been if Sanchez found his own receivers instead of the men wearing gold, black and white. The Saints are coming up on a tender part of their schedule. Look for them to keep winning.
Parting Points: The Giants play the Saints in two weeks. Will Eli’s leg be up for the game?
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