(Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

With exactly one second left to go on the clock, the New Orleans Saints gained control of the ball, Carolina had just kicked a field goal and led the game after a resounding comeback by the Saints in the second half.

Drew Brees was just 16 yards shy of breaking Dan Marino's record for most single season yardage by a quarterback and it looked as if he would get one more chance.

The Saints should've already been done, but the Panthers kicked the ball out of bounds so that one precious second stayed on the clock.

Drew Brees took the snap and looked for an open man as the Panthers played prevent defense, he threw the ball and it fell to the ground like a wounded bird.

With that, the disappointing 8-8 season came to a close as Sean Payton ran across the field to shake hands for the last time in 2008.

In the offseason, it was out with the old and in with the new, at least on the defensive side of the ball.

Defensive Coordinator Gary Gibbs was fired after a pitiful performance by the defense all season long and the much heralded Gregg Williams signed on to try to help the Black and Gold go to their first Super Bowl.

Gone are Mike Karney, Deuce McAllister, Mike McKenzie, Josh Bullocks and others but taking their places are Heath Evans, Jabari Greer, and let's not forget Darren Sharper.

The Saints are a popular pick this season and I can't wait to get started.

WWL 870 out of New Orleans played a highlight from 2008 along with a reminder that training camp was just ten days away and hearing Jim Henderson of the Saints Radio Network was like awakening a deep longing for something that I haven't had in a while.

That thing is Saints football and I'm ready for it.

So shove aside the Michael Vick talk and the Brett Favre rumors and think about it: Football is almost here.

Geaux Saints!

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