Bleacher Report - Articles by Will Osgood

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Last Minute Preview of Saints-Patriots

Will Osgood — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 20:20:15 -0500

Here are some things I will check back on in the morning to see if they happened. If they do, I believe the Saints can win this game.

1. The Patriots like to use a base three-receiver set, but will add even more than that to their formation. This will cause stress on the Saints lack of depth in the secondary.

The only way to stop the Patriots in this case is to get a lot of pressure on Tom Brady. If they are unable to do that, Brady could put up huge numbers tonight. Look for a lot of blitzing, early and often.

2. Patriots like to play a lot of coverage, and will even play man-to-man on the outside. These together are actually advantages for the Saints offense. Brees should be able to find holes in the coverage.

The intermediate sideline routes, and "go" routes to guys like Colston and Meachem will be open often.

3. Patriots are a good run defense. Because of this I would expect Brees to come out throwing early and often. After hitting some big plays, the running game then becomes an option later in the game.

4. As always, winning the turnover and third down battle will be key. So will time of possession, plus the rushing yardage leader might have an advantage.

Geaux Saints!

Catch Dat Brees: Warner Bros Depicts Saints Quarterback in Art

Will Osgood — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:12:48 -0500

In 2008, Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints' quarterback, led the NFL in passing yards by a wide margin. More incredible is that he became only the second player in the league’s storied history to pass for more than 5,000 yards.

Most football fans know he fell just 15 yards short of Dan Marino’s previous record of 5,084 yards.

It is because of Brees' incredible 5,069 yard season that Warner Bros decided to make a piece of art titled Catch Dat Brees, to honor Brees' outstanding performance.

Brees has long believed in using what he does on the football field to help others off the field. Brees himself acknowledged this when he spoke of his Christian faith in a Bleacher Report e-mail interview.

“It plays a significant role in my life in every aspect. I always try to do the right thing, provide opportunities for others and give thanks for the many gifts and opportunities that I have been provided in my life," he said.

This is perhaps what makes Warner Bros' decision to create the mural that features Brees with popular WB characters Bugs and Tweety, along with others, so special. It acknowledges his play on the field while giving him a chance to help others.

Brees, well known for his work ethic, said this in his interview with Bleacher Report, about managing his time, “My family is always my first priority. I think it’s important to have an effective routine and utilize good time management skills.”

His ability to live this out was put to the test on Monday, November 9, when he signed the first group of lithographs and hand-painted cels.

Monday is a day in the NFL where players come in to watch the film of the previous day’s game, condition, get treatment, and usually lift weights.

Brees spends as much time at the facilities on Mondays as any player, but still made time for his charity.

He does this because he sees his role as a role model to be very important.

“I always try to picture myself as a kid and remember how much the professional athletes I viewed as role models meant to me.”

Surely, there someday will be a kid who does the same because of what he learned from observing Brees. Maybe it will even have something to do with this piece of art that has been produced.

Clearly, the fact that Warner Bros decided to do this shows that Brees has done something pretty amazing.

Bleacher Report wondered how Brees managed to keep himself humble and stay hungry after an amazing season where he garnered such honors. His response, “My relationship with my wife is key. I also challenge myself each day to remember that you are either getting better or worse…there is no staying the same.”

For Saints fans, they know Brees is doing something right, since he has led his team to a 9-0 record and looks like a lock for another Pro Bowl bid, as well as being heavily involved in any MVP discussions.

In fact, life is good for the Saints these days.

Even head coach Sean Payton had a chance to get away to see the mural of Brees. Apparently he really liked it.

I’m thinking he’s liking a lot of things about Brees right about now.

If you want to find out more about Brees’ foundation, the art, and/or are interested in purchasing this item, more information is available at www.catchdatbrees.com.

And as always, remember, Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: New Orleans Saints Offensive Gameplan Vs. The Rams

Will Osgood — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:45:58 -0500

As I explained yesterday, there really is no excuse for the Saints defense to give up any points in this game.

In much the same way, there is no excuse for the Saints offense to not score on every possession.

It isn't that the Rams are not talented, and it's not that they have a poor scheme. Instead, there seems to be a lack of cohesion among the group. And that is always a recipe for disaster.

Chris Long and Leonard Little are both very talented players on the defensive line, but the interior of that line is not incredibly strong.

At the linebacker level, rookie James Laurinatis has been a pleasant surprise and has quickly become the leader of the defense. Unfortunately, there isn't much behind him to speak of.

In the secondary, it's O.J. Atogwe and a bunch of misfits, pretty much.

Schematically, the Rams run a pretty basic 4-3. They hardly extend their ends past the tackles, plus they keep their linebackers inside the tackles.

The idea of that defense is to stop the run up the middle and defend the middle zones in pass coverage. Because of this the outside is often open.

But even the middle of the defense is open when you get into formations with a slot receiver, or really any formation that isn't two backs, a tight end, and one receiver on each side.

Additionally, motion is very effective against this defense because it changes matchups in the passing game. If you want Jeremy Shockey lined up on a corner, motion him there. If you want him matched up on a linebacker, start him out wide and motion him inside. The same would go with any other receiver.

You can also use motion to help the running game by bringing guys into crack for an outside run. I would also expect some wing formations and bunch formations for this reason.

The corners generally play what's called a trail technique, meaning they allow the receivers to run past them, but they stay on his hip. For this reason, out-breaking routes will be mostly ineffective. However, in breaking routes, and deep routes will burn this secondary.

Therefore look for Brees to attack the middle of the field, and deep, as much as possible.

In the running game, I still look for New Orleans to attack the middle with their inside zone attack, allowing Bell, Thomas, and Bush the opportunity to read the hole and cutback whenever necessary.

I really think this is a game where Sean Payton can call practically whatever he wants, whenever he wants, and it should work, as long as the players can execute.

Black and Gold Xs and Os: New Orleans Saints Defensive Gameplan vs. Rams

Will Osgood — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 22:31:46 -0500

It's seemingly a fair statement to make that the New Orleans Saints should be 9-0 after this weekend's game. I say this mainly because the Saints are still playing good enough football to beat anyone. Even if they weren't though, this would probably be the game that could potentially get them out of a funk.

Honestly, St. Louis is just plain not very good offensively. They rely on one guy. That guy's name, of course, is Steven Jackson.

He accounts for more than 42 percent of all St. Louis's total offensive yardage. That, of course is a far cry from the balanced attack the Saints offense employs. Moreso is second in catches on the team. Not only does he carry the ball over 20 times per game, but also catches three balls per game.

In fact, if you combine all other Rams rushers this season, you get 39 carries. That means Jackson has carried the football 126 more times than the rest of the team. If you include all receptions, Jackson has more touches than the entire team has receptions.

I know that there are a lot of statistics being thrown around here. Some of it may not make sense. My point—in case it is not clear—is that St. Louis is ALL about Jackson, Jackson, and some more Jackson.

When you turn on the film, St. Louis does look like a professional offense, yet they are downright offensive in their nature. They are no longer "The Greatest Show on Turf." A more appropriate name may be "The Most Lopsided Show Ever."

They are so overmatched it's not even funny. I love rookie offensive tackle, Jason Smith. And some of their other offensive line are very skilled, but they do not play well as a unit yet. Of course, continuity is the biggest key to success on the line, so it is probably too early to give up on them.

It is not too early though, to give up on the Rams' skill players. Donnie Avery would be a great third/slot receiver. But they are asking him to be their number one guy. I'm sorry, but he is clearly not that.

The Rams better pray they have one of the top five picks in next year's draft so they can draft Dez Bryant. Otherwise, their offense will continue to stink for years to come without a playmaking wide receiver.

I digress, back to the Xs and Os talk.

Personnel-wise, the Rams use a lot of base personnel with former Saint Mike Karney at fullback and Randy McMichael at tight end. They'll go I-Formation from this, but also go with a spread gun formation and put Karney in the backfield and line Jackson out in the slot.

Again, this proves how much the Rams rely on Jackson. Most teams have a designated flex player, like the Saints do with Bush. Almost never is he the same guy who gets the majority of the carries.

Other personnel groupings include two tight ends, where they bring in Billy Bajema, a career backup, as the second tight end. They'll go with an Ace look, which is tight ends on the line on both sides of the formation. Other times, they'll go with a wing formation, where both tight ends are lined up on the same side. Either way, they want to run the football.

Finally, they use a lot of bunch looks, which they use mostly to run the football, but also in the passing game to run some switch routes, which they are hoping will confuse the defense if they're playing man-to-man coverage.

Switch routes also can work versus zone coverage because they are by nature designed to flood open spots of the field.

Most of the Rams passing game is a horizontal version of the West Coast Offense. This basically means they run short-to-intermediate routes, hoping to get quick players in space. They accompany these short routes with one deep route, which they hope will take the top off the coverage and eventually give those shorter routes more room.

Because the nature of this game, I would expect the Rams to play conservatively on offense and ride Steven Jackson once again. They may throw some play action in, which I didn't see too much of on film. But with a defense struggling to stop the run, a beast like Jackson, and no passing game, it seems like the only sensible solution.

How Will Gregg Williams Stop Jackson?

If I don't sound like a broken record, then something is horribly wrong. Put an eighth guy in the box. Heck, put a ninth guy in the box. Screw it, don't even defend their receivers...okay just kidding, but I think you get the point.

Seriously, adding a ninth guy, at least on some downs, may not be a horrible idea. Doing so really will force them to either check off and go to a pass play, which is an advantage for the Saints. Or they will have to run against nine-in-the-box. Either way, the Saints should stop them.

Since Jackson is just as likely to catch a pass as any other Rams player, I would put one of the two safeties on him at all times. Allow the linebackers to play McMichael or Karney out of the backfield.

I would also send a variety of blitzes on third down to confuse the offensive line and get pressure on Marc Bulger. Behind it, play exclusively man-to-man coverage, which will make interceptions difficult, but gives the defense a better chance to stop the Rams.

I wish I could give you more, but truthfully, that's really all there is need for. It should be utter domination on both sides of the ball. If it is not, the Saints aren't as good as we all thought.

Black and Gold Xs and Os: The Saints' Offensive Gameplan vs. the Panthers

Will Osgood — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 13:17:51 -0500

This week against the Carolina Panthers' defense, the New Orleans Saints face a formidable challenge. It is the first team they have seen this year that plays a base Cover-2 defense.

In the past, the Saints have not done as well against this style of defense. Of course, over that same stretch they tore apart man-to-man defenses. This season they've found some difficulty against man-to-man defenses, but tore apart zone coverages.

So what should we expect in Week Nine (Game Eight)?

Expect Carolina to mix up its coverages, trying to give Drew Brees different looks than what he sees on film. Carolina's other most common coverage is Cover-3.

The corners play the Cover-2 soft, meaning they trail the outside receivers on their routes but stay focused on what is happening behind them in order to get back to the route thrown into the flat.

There are many options of ways to attack this base Cover-2. You can send two or three receivers to one side and flood that side. You can run receivers at the two safeties and have another receiver find the open hole in the coverage.

You can simply throw shallow crossing route and check-down routes play after play and move the ball methodically down the field. Of course, knowing Sean Payton's style of play-calling, he will combine all these methods. And let's not forget the running game.

To be completely honest, even though the Panthers' pass defense looks vulnerable, the running game seemingly will be even more open. This is because Carolina's linebackers fly hard to the football, leaving cutback lanes for Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell.

Because of their aggressive pursuit, reverses and end-arounds can work pretty well against this defense.

On obvious run downs, Carolina does a better job of filling those holes, meaning the best bet is to run right at them with Bell on a power-type run.

The ends rush pretty hard upfield, meaning if Brees can loft the ball over their arms, that Swing Screen (which I told you they would run again, and it was the most important play of the game) will be open in short-yardage situations.

Backs out of the backfield should be open all day. Also, with the aggressive pursuit of the linebackers, play-action with Jeremy Shockey or Marques Colston getting over the top of the linebackers will be open all day.

I chose to keep this gameplan brief because I believe this may be one of the simplest gameplans the Saints offense will have this season. In reality, this defense is ripe for the picking. The Saints should be able to run or pass, and I'm not sure the order matters much.

I would say it's probably best to come out with some screens and draws to slow down Carolina's four-man pass rush. At that point anything is possible.

As long as the Saints don't come out wearing all black again, I say they stroll to an easy victory. I'll be praying between now and gametime that they stick with the gold pants. Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: New Orleans Saints' Defensive Gameplan vs. Carolina

Will Osgood — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:05:32 -0500

After watching the past four games the Carolina Panthers have played, it is very clear their offense is very good at one thing—running the football—and not so good at another—throwing it.

Anyone probably could have said the same thing, without breaking down the Panthers previous four games.

I hope to give you some more patterns and tendencies to watch for on Sunday afternoon.

One of those is that the Panthers routinely run the football on first down. I don't have an actual percentage but I would say at least 60 percent of the time. The other 40 percent is made up of primarily play-action and some quick dropback passes.

When they use play-action on first down, about 90 percent of the time they are trying to get an explosive play down the field, and most of the time they are trying to hit Steve Smith. He runs a lot of "Go Routes" and Deep Posts, as well as some Deep Ins (Digs).

The other main form of play-action the Panthers will use is a bootleg where they generally hit a tight end or back out of the backfield in the flat.

I should have noted previously that the Panthers line up probably 98 percent of the time on first down with either 21, 22, or 12 personnel. In order, that is two backs and one tight end, two backs and two tight ends, and one back with two tight ends.

This is relevant because it gives them the bulk and strength to block teams in the run game. They use a lot of I-Formations and offset-I to run the ball.

They also use the Ace (from 12 personnel) sets to run the ball. Either way, it forces eight defenders in the box, which is when the play-action threat becomes most dangerous.

It is also common for the Panthers to use pretty much the same alignments and play concepts on second down.

It seems fair to say that after Monday night's game, and the success the Panthers have had in recent weeks, that the Panthers will focus mostly on the running game, especially early in the game, and for as long as they are able to stay close.

One other set they have shown in recent weeks, on any D & D (down and distance), is a bunch formation—three eligible receivers to one side of the formation, all within about one yard of each other.

They use this primarily to out-man one side of the defense and really power the ball to that side.

But they also love the inside zone, which goes off tackle, or off guard. They also will run a zone cut play, where they slant the entire line to one side, hand off that way, but send their fullback the other way. The back then cuts and runs back that way through a huge hole.

Additionally, the Panthers have two different types of toss plays. On one, they simply zone block—again where they all slant to the side the ball is going.

The other is the more traditional toss play, where a guard pulls to the side of the toss, hoping to take out a filling linebacker or safety.

In addition to blocking well in the running game, the Panthers have two outstanding backs. That really is the key to their being a very good running team.

DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart are among the best in the game as a tandem. Both have good power and speed.

Both are blazing fast when they get out in the open field. But what makes both of them so dynamic, simply as runners, is their ability to press the line of scrimmage, and then quickly get outside with great speed.

Both cut very quickly on those zone cut plays. Both catch the ball out of the backfield very well, and this is really a tremendous weapon for the Panthers offense. But, neither is great in pass protection. That is where they can be had.

When the Panthers come across a third down, they become slightly more exotic, both personnel-wise and formation-wise. They will use 10, 11, 12, and 21 groupings in this situation. 11—three receivers, one tight end, and one back—is their most common grouping on these downs.

They often will go with 3x1 formations (three receivers to one side of the formation, one to the other) and that lone ranger is often Steve Smith. By doing this, they are hoping to get him matched up one-on-one.

They know if you help with a safety or LB that they then have a man advantage on the other side. In my opinion it is worth it, since no one else is really going to burn you very often.

Much like Atlanta, a bulk of Carolina's pass offense consists of intermediate or deep routes. Carolina's offensive line has struggled in recent weeks holding up against a twisting, stunting four-man rush. Therefore, they haven't been able to hit those deep routes.

Getting pressure on Delhomme with a four-man pass rush will be a huge key for New Orleans. If they are able to do that and double Steve Smith, they should never give up any big pass plays against this offense.

Of course, Delhomme also has a tendency to just chuck a lot of throws when facing pressure, which means the Saints could add to their high turnover numbers that they've established to this point in the 2009 season.

So if you haven't figured out my gameplan yet, here it is:

- Play eight men in the box on first and second down. Play off coverage on Steve Smith with rotating help from Sharper or a LB.

- Allow Harper to play the tight end out of the backfield on playaction and dropback passes.

- Use Shanle to play the RB out of the backfield. Vilma or Evans/Dunbar can play the fullback.

- As I planned a few games ago against another heavy zone team, it is crucial to keep gap control in defending the run. To throw off the line, run some twists and stunts when you expect a run.

- Run blitz on early downs, but most importantly tackle!

- On Third Down, use Bobby Mcray as a DE, slide Charles Grant to DT, and have Smith and Ayodele stay in their normal positions. This gives you your current best pass-rushing D-Line.

- Play Cover Two and Cover Four on Third Down to keep Smith in front of you. Blitz linebackers on a rotating basis to guarantee pressure on Delhomme. This will cause the ball to come out early, leading to turnovers.

- Watch the draw and screen on third down, especially third-and-long. Because of Delhomme's struggles they don't trust him as much as they once did.

This causes them to play cautious. Don't be fooled though, Williams or Stewart are capable of breaking one.

Finally, and most importantly, the defense has struggled a bit the past couple weeks. It's time for Gregg Williams to renew the unit's swagger. This game starts a three-game stretch against some egregious offenses. This is a chance to establish dominance heading into a tough end of November and December stretch.

I will post the offensive gameplan by tomorrow morning. Until then, Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold X's & O's: Saints Offensive Gameplan vs. the Falcons

Will Osgood — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:07:09 -0500

I could've picked any number of offensive players for the Saints this week to represent them on the "gameplan picture." But I picked Thomas.

Perhaps it is because I am desperate in fantasy football, as I'm down 31 points headed into Monday night's game. Maybe it is because I feel that for some reason after two-plus solid seasons, Thomas is still not garnering the kind of respect he deserves.

Most likely, though, it is that Thomas stands to have a very nice game in the dome on Monday Night Football . Then again, I predict that Drew Brees will torch the Falcons secondary as well.

This could be a game that the last team with the ball wins, much like last season's matchup at the Dome was. I have very little doubt that the Saints will be able to score on the Falcons. At this point, pretty much the only thing that can stop this unit is itself, or a key injury, which no Saints fan wants to even consider.

Getting back to the point at hand, the Falcons defense is one that frankly has a lot of holes. This is not to say that they aren't capable of slowing down the New Orleans offense, but it will take execution like they have not had in recent weeks.

There isn't really one guy on the Atlanta defense that you point to and say, "well we have to really watch out for that guy". That may be one of the scariest aspects of this matchup, because Miami was pretty much the same way.

Speaking of parallels between Atlanta and Miami; the Falcons defensive scheme is not wholly different from the Dolphins. Sure, Miami ran a base 3-4, whereas the Falcons run a 4-3, but the way they play once the ball has been snapped, is fairly similar.

Here are some tendencies that jumped out after watching three games of film on this defense.

- John Abraham is not the same player he was even last year. He will no longer beat tackles off the edge with speed. Instead, the Falcons use a lot of stunts and twists to cause QB pressure. They also blitz more than they did a year ago.

- The Falcons will play a lot of matchup zone-type coverages. I use this basketball terminology because I'm not sure what else to call it. If you're familiar with this part of basketball, it's pretty much the same thing.

The defenders play an area and will man-up with whoever comes into that area. Because of this, bunch and stack alignments with the receivers will force their defense to either adjust or will allow a receiver to get open quite easily.

- When the offense lines up in a Pro Set—two backs, tight end, and one receiver on both sides of the formation—two things happen that are very advantageous for the offense.

First, you get straight man-to-man on the outside. This means you get Devery Henderson, Robert Meachem, or Marques Colston going against Chris Houston and whoever is on the other side. That is a definite mismatch.

Second, you can rest assured that in the pro set, you will get one of the three linebackers covering the tight end. And frankly, it is irrelevant who it is, because none of them can cover Jeremy Shockey.

- Also, out of two backs, playaction is a wonderful method of attack, because it triggers a pretty intense blitz. Much like Miami, if you can hold up against that blitz, you have man-to-man down the field, and an opportunity to hit a deep pass.

- Against a two-tight end set, a linebacker will come up and play over one of the tight ends. Because of this, if you line up with both tight ends on the same side, it becomes an easy down block for the first tight end to run off tackle, and outside zone-type plays, and even an outside toss. Oh yeah, don't forget about that swing screen (I know I've said that three weeks in a row. It's coming back at some point, I promise you!).

- When an offense goes into a 2x2 alignment—two receivers on both sides of the formation—the Falcons will have safeties, or a nickel play the slots, but they play way off, about 10 yards in fact. This puts them at risk of a lot of in-breaking intermediate routes, crossing routes, etc.

- They play a lot of Tampa Two, which really just means they have their middle linebacker drift back at the snap and play deep middle of the coverage. It is very possible to get underneath him with slots and tight ends, or over the top with Henderson or Meachem for big plays over the middle. And that leads me to my final main point.

- The middle of the field is ALWAYS open, though that safety Thomas DeCoud is an eye-reader. A QB can manipulate him by looking off other routes. Expect Brees to have active eyes tonight.

How to Specifically Attack the Falcons Defense

I expect Sean Payton to come out aggressively tonight. He'll probably formation the Falcons to death. I would expect a lot of stack and bunch formations early in the contest, to see if they can hit some big ones early, but also to see just how they are going to play those looks.

We may even see some I Twins looks, where the two receivers are stacked away from the tight end. This gives you the advantages we talked about in the stack look, but also gets Jeremy Shockey one-on-one with a linebacker.

I think playaction may be used a lot in this ball game. It can be very effective against the Falcons, and gives Brees a chance to hit some deep throws.

Here would be my first ten plays script:

1. (21) I-Left Twins PA TE Seam X Drag Z Bench: This would give the play fake, get Shockey running down the seam on a LB, Colston running a shallow cross, and Henderson or Meachem running a deep out.

2. (20 Bush) Quads Rt Z Jailbreak Screen: This is the 2x2 look. The slot goes to block the corner over the outside receiver, the Z (Henderson, Meachem, Moore, or Bush) takes one step upfield then loops back towards Brees, who throws it to him with Stinchcomb coming to wipe out a LB, getting the Z in open space.

3. (12) Ace Wing Lt Twins Zip 39 Crack Toss: David Thomas is the TE on the line, Shockey lined up 1x1 to the outside of him. Henderson or Meachem comes in motion to crack back. Thomas gets the ball outside and reads the crack blocks, either cutting up or getting to the outside.

4. (11 Bush) Stack Tight Rt Double Cross H Flat Y Post: This has Colston and Moore running crossing routes, hoping to rub the linebackers. Bush is running to the sideline and Shockey running a vertical post.

5. (10 Pierre) Bunch Lt 42 Trap Draw: Brees gives a look like he's going to throw, then hands off to Thomas, who runs inside a block by Meachem coming across the formation.

6. (21 Bell) Strong Right 999 H Check Middle: Brees takes a seven-step drop, giving Henderson, Meachem, and Shockey time to get deep on "Go" routes. Bell searches for someone to block, then releases to the middle of the field as a check down in case none of the three verticals come open.

7. (21 Bush) Deuce Lt Hart 42 Power: This has Bush lined up to the right and coming in motion. The handoff goes to Bell, who runs right behind a pulling guard. Brees then fakes to Bush, hoping to freeze the backside tackle, and setting up the end around for later.

8. (11 Bush) Gun Empty Rt Stack Tight 22 Drag H Post F Wheel: This places Shockey and Bush stacked together in the formation to the right but close to the line. Shockey runs a shallow cross route. The two outside receivers run slants as a hot read. Henderson runs a skinny post on the left side. Bush runs around the slant up the sideline hoping to catch one deep.

9. (22 Thomas) Weak Lt Wing 45 Counter: Whoever the fullback is (Hamilton?) lines up offset away from the tight ends. Shockey comes back across the formation as a pulling blocker. Brees reverse pivots gives a counter step. It is a misdirection play that should work against a defense that tries to play fast.

10. (11) Trey Rt 44 Izzone: This is a 3x1 look, but we're going to run the football. Thomas is the tight end and he will hook the linebacker in front of him. The rest of the line slants to the right. Bell simply reads the hole and goes. Touchdown Saints!

Ten plays, one score, and one great way to start the game. These are just a few plays that would figure to work against this defense. Whatever Sean Payton calls, let's hope it works.

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Defensive Game Plan Vs. The Falcons

Will Osgood — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:27:01 -0400

When watching film of the Atlanta Falcons offense, a few things stand out to me. They are a very well organized offense from a schematic and personnel perspective. They are also extremely well coached. And perhaps most importantly, they have a lot of talent.

It all starts with their second-year QB Matt Ryan. Ryan takes as few sacks as Drew Brees normally does. In fact, this year Ryan has been even better about getting the ball out than Drew.

And make no mistake about it, Ryan is a very athletic player who has no problem getting outside to keep plays alive or to make a few yards for his offense. Additionally, when he has a chance to step into a throw, his arm is as strong as anyone's in the entire league.

When he begins to struggle, it is against pressure, at which point he has a habit of throwing off his back foot. This causes him to be less accurate and lose distance on his throws.

Ryan excels in two-minute drills and in tight situations, hence the nickname "Matty Ice". Hopefully, Monday night's game won't come down to such a situation.

It is important to note that the talent does not end with Ryan. Running backs Michael Turner and Jerrious Norwood provide a nice one-two punch, which has become a trio in recent weeks with Jason Snelling providing an even more bruising-type presence in the lineup.

Even though they've had less success on the ground this year than a year ago, they are still explosive running the football and remain committed to it, even when playing from behind.

Tight End Tony Gonzalez might as well be Jeremy Shockey as far as the New Orleans defense is concerned. Beyond the fact that both wear no. 88, they are used exactly the same way in offenses that are almost mirror images.

Gonzalez runs a lot of short crossing routes and seam routes up the middle against safeties and linebackers. They like to place him all over the formation, and motion him a lot to block backside on run plays. He is not used much in pass protection, mainly because he is such a dynamic receiving threat.

Additionally, Roddy White is used mainly as a big-play guy. He runs a lot of vertical routes and deep routes over the middle. Michael Jenkins is a bigger receiver who is more of a possession-type receiver. He will run a lot of intermediate routes, and might be one of the better receivers at catching the ball on a slant route and holding on.

On the offensive line, the Falcons are pretty much a one-man team as far as names go. But they work very well as a unit, and because of that open up a lot of holes in the running game, and do a good job keeping Matt Ryan clean in the pocket.

The Falcons like to go big-on-big with LT Sam Baker. This basically means they allow Baker to go one-on-one with either the defensive end lined up over him, or a blitzer lined up over him. Occasionally, though they will help him with the blitzer by checking a back, allowing Baker to stay inside when the end lines up inside shade of him, in a five-technique as opposed to outside which is a seven-tech.

Knowing how the Falcons like to protect is key since so much of what they do is predicated on giving Ryan time to throw. They run so many deep routes, or slower developing routes at least that they must protect Ryan. Pressure is key against this offense.

It is not unusual for Atlanta to get five out into the pattern, but they will generally keep at least one in if they see a blitz. They will often send five receivers vertical or four vertical and send one shallow as a clear out concept to hit that guy over the middle.

Because of this defenses must be ready to cover five guys man-to-man and pay attention to every eligible receiver on the field. They are all legitimate options for Ryan to utilize at any time.

Brief Defensive Game Plan

Against the running game, I would run blitz and shoot gaps against what is primarily an inside zone, cutback type team. Shoot the gaps that are empty since that is where they want to hit the run ultimately. This clogs up lanes, and then all you must do is tackle.

I would do this mostly with an outside linebacker, but from time-to-time would bring Roman Harper or Darren Sharper to perform this role.

In third down situations, and other obvious passing downs, I would big blitz, or send one more to a certain side than the Falcons have to protect. Use some stunts, and twists on the inside against a double-team blocking scheme. On the outside against Baker, bring a DE and OLB and twist them, forcing Baker to take the OLB, and leaving the DE on a RB or TE.

Otherwise, I would really blitz the "A gap" hard, trying to get to Ryan early. If you do this it is important to play contain on the outside in order to keep Ryan in the pocket. If he gets outside he becomes even more dangerous. He has yet to prove he can consistently step up into the pocket. Make him do this.

In coverage, ideally a Two-Man look with two deep safeties and man coverage should work well. Of course, the more you blitz the fewer people you have to play in coverage. I would play some cover four as a result to keep the ball in front with man coverage on Tight Ends and backs to watch the over-the-middle throws.

It is important to give Matt Ryan a lot of different looks. I think Gregg Williams will do that. This will cause pressure, which will cause turnovers. And in honor of Halloween, the Saints will scare the Falcons and make them pay for being too loose with the football.

Monday I will post my offensive game plan. Until then, Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Tape Review Of the Saints Comeback Win

Will Osgood — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:57:13 -0400

Lost in the euphoria of the Saints miraculous comeback Sunday evening was the fact the Saints probably played the worst football not only of their season, but perhaps of any team's season in the first half.

They couldn't block, they couldn't throw, they couldn't catch a pass, they couldn't tackle, they missed assignments, took poor angles, and perhaps worst of all, just looked extremely flat, and therefore lost (like the show, haha).

In the first half the Saints looked like they couldn't hold the jockstraps of the Detroit Lions. In the second half, they looked the best team in football, which in my opinion they are.

Sure there was an egregious call on a third down play on Miami's first offensive series, which, if it had been called correctly, or the replay booth didn't malfunction, the Saints would've gotten the ball the next play. You could say, well the Saints still forced them to punt.

That is true, but Miami then pinned the Saints inside their own 10-yard line with the punt. Of course, I have no idea why Lance Moore caught that punt. That was really the first of many bonehead plays the Saints made in the first half, which really became a comedy of errors.

The Saints then committed a false start penalty, immediately followed by a delay of game, which is directly on the shoulders of Mr. Brees. Finally, they were able to run a play, only to throw an incompletion. On the next play, they run, but with horrible blocking, and Thomas gains one or two yards.

Third-and-12, the Dolphins blitz Brees, he doesn't have time to find an open receiver, so he chucks it downfield, hoping Devery Henderson will find it, only to have it intercepted and returned to the five yard line.

Next play, touchdown Dolphins, and the first half rout is on. Maybe if that poor completion call had been reversed none of this would've happened and the Saints may have gone on to an easy victory.

But in a way I am actually very happy that it went this way. One because it made for a tremendous comeback and a very entertaining football game. And two, because it showed what New Orleans fans really wanted to see. Can this team overcome a deficit? Can they finish games? When it's not easy, can this team still win?

And the Saints responded with a resounding "YES!!!!"

The thing that struck me when watching the film is that the Saints didn't make a ton of adjustments, scheme-wise in the second half. Jo-Lonn Dunbar replaced Troy Evans at SLB, and they got a little more exotic with the blitz packages. But mostly, they just executed better.

Offensively, Mike Bell provided a huge spark, with his power running in-between-the-tackles. Jeremy Shockey went into crazy-guy mode, which is when he plays his best football, and Drew Brees went from high school quarterback to All-Pro again.

What does this tell me?

It wasn't scheme. It wasn't even player insertions, although that helped. It was a team with an attitude. It's a team that is on a mission, and will not be stopped. It is a team that knows they are the best team in football and refuses to lose to inferior teams.

The reason I italicized "team" is to point to the fact that it is not a bunch of individuals out their playing for their own glory. Each guy is giving everything he has, and doing so unselfishly because they know the prize is so much better than getting their own glory.

Watching them on film, you notice this. Sure, guys will get upset if they don't get a throw when they are open. But when they see that someone else caught it and got a first down, they immediately forget about their own nature.

This team-attitude no doubt stems from their leader, their quarterback Drew Brees. Nobody is more of a competitor and winner than he is. The guys' will is doubly stronger than most people's. But it's not about him, it's about the Saints. And they all just feed off that attitude.

So I could talk about xs and os, but that wouldn't do this game justice. This game for the Saints was not about the xs and os. It was about the hearts and the attitudes.

It was about a defense that said, we're tired of this crap. Watch out Chad Henne, we're going to blitz you, do something about it. And the amazing thing is the Dolphins had no response. Once the Saints got going, it was a like a steamroll. That's what leadership does for a team.

Position-by-Position Grades

QB Drew Brees: B-

To say that Brees' overall performance was a great one would be foolish. He looked human for just about the entire first half. His decision-making was much slower than normal. He was rattled by the Dolphins' pass rush. His throws were inaccurate.

But at the end of the first half, in the two-minute it all came back. From that point on, Brees looked calm and composed. He made much quicker decisions, threw more accurately, but mostly provided the leadership that great teams have.

RB Reggie Bush, Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell, & Heath Evans: B

In the first half, this group was average at best. Granted, that's better than the rest of the team, who was downright awful. They did the best they could to run through holes that weren't there. They caught some passes but couldn't do much with them, because there was nowhere to run.

In the second half, the offensive line figured some things out and the game became easy for this group. Again they ran hard through holes. They caught passes and made things happen with the ball.

I really think Mike Bell's presence in the second half was huge. He went in there and ran with a passion the Dolphins had not seen on the day. And you could see it even impacted the way Pierre Thomas ran the football. And for that matter, it impacted Reggie Bush.

Bush, when he had the ball, looked like the old Reggie. He broke a tackle on a key pass conversion near the end of the game. But the most exciting play of a very exciting game had to be the double-reverse where Reggie took off flying from the five and a half-yard line and got into the end zone.

Last time he did that was in Pittsburgh in 2006. The Saints lost that game, but weren't about to lose this one.

TE Jeremy Shockey & David Thomas: A

You can't say enough about the attitude and effort Shockey gave in the second half yesterday. He clearly was a big boost to the Saints offensive efforts. Not only did have 105 yards receiving, but he did a really nice job of run blocking and protecting Drew Brees in the second half.

Thomas, although not the star that Shockey is, also provided a boost with good blocking. The Saints are definitely a better football team because he is a member of their team.

WR Marques Colston, Devery Henderson, Lance Moore, & Robert Meachem: B

I thought Colston had a rare game, in that he was targeted so often that he couldn't help but put up good stats. The problem is that he left a lot on the board.

He got outfought in the third quarter for a ball in the end zone that was a perfect throw by Brees

Henderson provided a big spark by catching some balls on intermediate routes and making key conversions. His end-around also was a key play on one of the Saints drives.

Moore was largely ineffective, but that is not tremendously surprising given the types of routes he runs and the types of coverages the Dolphins like to play.

Meachem was similar although he did a good job blocking when in, and was open on a few throws, but Brees chose to go in a different direction, often because protection was breaking down.

Offensive Line : C+

I feel this is actually a pretty generous grade overall. Their play in the first half deserved an "F". They were out-physicaled, outsmarted, and just outplayed.

I'm not sure what happened in the locker room at halftime, but suddenly they transformed back to the offensive line they had been in the previous five games and for several seasons now.

Defensive Line Will Smith, Charles Grant, Bobby McCray, Anthony Hargrove, Remi Ayodele, & Sedrick Ellis: B-

For the most part, this unit was average. There were a few plays where Will Smith took poor angles and did not keep contain on the "Wildcat". Grant didn't really make much happen. McCray actually provided a spark for the team when he entered the game in the second quarter.

Sedrick Ellis left in the second quarter. Hopefully, his injury is not too bad. He will be a tough guy to replace over the course of a season, although he was getting his butt kicked when he left yesterday.

Remi Ayodele played solidly, especially in the second half. But the Saints best player on the line was Anthony Hargrove.

He played with a passion that is unusual for that position. He was all over the place. He had two sacks, caused mostly by effort. He clogged running holes. The Saints might just have a player in Anthony Hargrove.

LB Jonathan Vilma, Scott Shanle, Troy Evans, & Jo-Lonn Dunbar: B-

Truthfully the only reason this group gets a grade in the "B range" is because of Vilma. Otherwise, it might be an "F". Shanle had by far his worst game of the season. He took poor angles, missed tackles. Even Vilma in the first half looked a little flustered, sometimes covering the wrong guy.

But he really stepped it up in the second half. I think he was the best player on the field in that second half. He was running around making tackles, getting his defense into the right calls. He stepped up big time.

Safety Roman Harper & Darren Shaper: A

Please don't allow my comment about Vilma to discount the play of Sharper and Harper really in the entire game. I thought this was the best game either of them played all year. Harper was solid in coverage situations, and made plays in the running game or chasing guys with the ball.

Sharper was as solid as ever and really stepped up in the running game as well. Of course, adding a pick-six at the moment that he did, was huge for New Orleans.

DB Jabari Greer, Tracy Porter, & Randall Gay: B-

This wasn't the best game for young Porter, who got burned by slower, white receivers Greg Camarillo and Brian Hartline numerous times. But he continued fighting and was able to make a few plays as well.

Most notably he kept playing when Henne threw a perfect ball to Ted Ginn, who then dropped it allowing Darren Sharper to make the interception. Porter should be credited for keeping that play alive.

Greer was his normal reliable self. He almost never gets beat, plus he came up and played the run effectively yesterday. His impact on this team has been very much understated in my opinion.

Randall Gay was solid at nickelback although it was his fault Davone Bess even got open on that early play in the game where it should've been ruled no catch. He waited to jam him and never recovered. Overall though, it was a solid effort from this group.

In closing, I again need to vent my frustration that John Carney is still the Saints Kicker. He cannot make a field goal beyond 45 yards. At some point, we're going to need that. I really hope Sean Payton goes back to Garrett Hartley. He's the best guy for the job.

Until later this week, and a preview of the Falcons, have a good one Saints fans. We have the best team in the NFL. Only got to prove it 13 more times. Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Offensive Gameplan Vs. The Dolphins

Will Osgood — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:47:26 -0400

I'm calling it now. This will be Reggie Bush's breakout game for the 2009 season. He will get the ball early and often against an aggressive Dolphins defense. I could finish the article right now, and some of you would think I'm brilliant, while most would think I lost my mind.

Okay, so there's a little more to the Saints offensive game plan than giving Reggie the ball as much as possible. But first, what kind of defense are the Saints facing?

Dolphins Defensive Scheme

The Dolphins are primarily a 3-4 defensive front team. This means they have three guys who line up with their hand on the ground and four guys who stand up behind or next to them. Most people know that.

What some may not realize is the way the Dolphins play their scheme, it is much closer to a 5-2 defense, where you have five rushers and two linebackers who play the middle of the field.

When they show their base 3-4, which is really a 5-2, it is quite common for them to bring all five and play their two middle backers in coverage. Other times, they will play one outside backer a little further off the line, showing almost a 4-3 look.

And some downs they will take one of their D-Linemen out, put their two outside backers as defensive ends and add a secondary player. This defense is essentially a 4-2-5.

Just in their fronts, the Dolphins give you a lot to prepare for as an offense.

To bring pressure, the Dolphins like to show blitz from the outside and come up the middle, bringing as many as six rushers at a time. It may be a little tougher for them to do this against Brees though since he has such a quick release.

They are not a huge overload blitz team, like the Jets, but from time-to-time will overload one side just to give a different look and try to catch the offense off guard.

One thing I found is that the Dolphins will allow their outside backers to play man-to-man coverage against tight ends or running backs when those guys are lined up tight in the slot. Pete Carmichael Jr. and Sean Payton must decide if this is a matchup they want to look for. I say it is.

And when receivers come in short motion into the formation, the inside linebackers will often get matched up on them man-to-man. Again, I believe this is something the Saints would like to take advantage of.

In the running game, the Dolphins are very stout, not just because they struggle in pass coverage, although that is a small reason for their high rush defense ranking. More often though, they do a really good job on the line of "two-gapping" meaning each linemen is responsible for an entire gap, of which there are four.

The nose tackle pretty much takes up the entire "A Gap". The defensive ends take up parts of both the "B" and "C" gaps. This leaves only the "D Gap" open, but they generally fill this with one of the linebackers, or occasionally a safety coming up in run support.

They also will use some run blitzes by their middle backers to fill gaps, while they stunt and twist their linemen to confuse the offensive line. Because of these factors, running up the middle is very difficult on this defense. The key is to be more physical and push them off the ball.

In the secondary, they play primarily man-to-man coverage, despite giving a lot of playing time to two rookies, in Sean Smith and Vontae Davis. These youngsters, along with Will Allen, have been burnt deep quite a few times in recent weeks by the Chargers and Jets. Don't think Brees hasn't noticed that in film study this week.

Saints Counter to the Dolphins' Scheme

Any time an offense shows two backs, it seems to act as a catalyst for a Dolphins' blitz. Therefore, in two backs I would run some screens, draws, outside zone and toss plays, along with some quick throws into the flats to Bush, Evans, and/or Shockey.

But also if an offense feels confident in their ability to pick up that blitz, this becomes a great time to go deep to guys like Henderson or Meachem. But also don't forget about Colston with his size as a potential deep target as well.

I would also look for some "21 Pony", which is when the Saints play two of their tailbacks in the game at the same time. Generally it is Bush and either Thomas or Mike Bell. The benefit of this is the ability to maintain a running threat while also using Bush as a receiver and getting some matchups on linebackers, which he should be able to expose.

Formations to use for this that are advisable are to put him and Shockey lined up on the same side, guaranteeing you will get one of them on a linebacker, both of which are mismatches. Bush probably lines up in the slot with Shockey flexed out but only a couple yards away from Bush.

This could even lead to some run plays to that side with Reggie clearing out his defender and Shockey coming inside to block. You would probably use a draw look or perhaps a counter.

I also like going Empty in this game, because while you are probably going to get a blitz, you have a QB who can pick that up mentally very quickly. More importantly though, you have man-to-man, five-on-five basically.

I'd probably use Bush and Shockey, and rotate the receivers as far as who gets to take advantage of this obvious mismatch. Shockey could get matched up on a safety, as could Bush. I love these matchups.

A Few Keys to Success for the Saints Offense

Don't Turn the Ball Over

This really is a key every week, but even more so this week. It seems highly likely that the Dolphins are going to try to bleed as much clock as possible when they have the ball.

Score Every Chance You Get

I know this sounds rather obvious, but in case the Dolphins offense is successful at keeping the ball away, it becomes paramount to score when we possess the ball.

Stick to the Run

I know I pretty much told you that they are very vulnerable to the pass, and they are, but against this pass rush, it is dangerous to become one-dimensional. Be patient, you may not get a lot of yards early, but it will help with play action and just keeping the defense off guard.

Running the ball outside and get them chasing sideline-to-sideline will tire them out, which will later open up in the inside running game. A reverse doesn't figure to work to well against a disciplined defense such as this one, but a double reverse, or some other kind of trick run might.

Score Early

This season has changed my opinion on the debate "If we win the toss do we want the ball now, or in the second half?" I used to be adamant that I want the ball in the second half in case the first half didn't go so well. But I've realized that's a form of passive aggressiveness.

Good teams go out and rip the opponent's heart out at the beginning of the game. The Saints are a better football team, but Miami is good enough to beat them if the Saints allow them to stick in the game. Get the ball to start the game, score, and win. How's that for a simple game plan?

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Saints Defensive Preview For The Miami Dolphins

Will Osgood — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:05:00 -0400

I chose this picture to highlight this article because it is exactly what everyone has come to believe the Miami Dolphins' offense is all about. Their staple is the "Wildcat", or so everyone thinks.

And there is no doubt that they are the NFL's inventors of this offense and do run it better than anyone. But we've romanticized the "Wildcat" to the point that it's practically a folktale.

Truthfully, the Dolphins offense is about a lot more than the "Wildcat". It is about a power running game. It is about play-action to get speedster Ted Ginn deep down the field. It is about a short, controlled passing game to guys like Davone Bess and Greg Camarillo.

Because the Dolphins' offensive strategy revolves around their ability to get their best players on the field, I feel it is best to start by describing their personnel and spend a little less time on their scheme than I normally do.

Personnel

QB Chad Henne

No offense to Chad Pennington, who in my opinion is one of the best game managing QBs of all-time, but Henne provides the Dolphins offense with something they did not have with Pennington—explosion.

Henne can really gun the ball down the field, giving them a vertical element to their passing game and the possibility to score in less than five minutes. With his big arm he also can get away with throwing into coverage because gun-slingers often can fit balls into small windows.

He is still in the process of becoming an NFL QB, but he looks well on his way to becoming Miami's franchise QB for many years to come.

RB Ronnie Brown

Despite my insistence that the Dolphins are about more than the "Wildcat", there is no doubt that part of what makes Brown so good is his ability to play as a Single-Wing QB in that package.

Aside from that though, Brown really is a complete player. He is good in pass protection and catching the ball out of the backfield—because he has good hands but also runs good routes for a RB.

But most impressive is his ability to break tackles and pick up chunks of yards and explode for big plays.

RB Ricky Williams

Saints fans know this player well. But he has reinvented himself a bit in the Miami offense.

Much like Brown, he is a complete player who excels with the ball in his hands, but also in pass protection and in catching the ball out of the backfield. He is explosive with the ball in his hands and is a beast of a player to tackle.

WR Ted Ginn

Ginn is a deep threat extraordinaire similar to the player that Devery Henderson was for the Saints a few years ago. He has blazing speed and can beat almost any corner.

His hands, though, are suspect and he is still learning to be a good route runner. However, given the way he has played with Henne so far, it looks like Ginn may ultimately become the number one receiver he was drafted to be.

WR Davone Bess

Continuing the comparisons to Saints Wide Receivers, Bess is eerily similar to Lance Moore, at least in the way the Dolphins use him.

They love to throw quick screens to the former Hawaii Warrior and let him use his speed and agility to make things happen.

Additionally, he is Henne's main target on third down, when he runs a lot of intermediate routes over the middle of the field and finds holes in the zone coverage.

Greg Camarillo and rookie Brian Hartline round out the receiving core. Both are good possession-type receivers and are growing to make Miami a more diverse and explosive offense.

Offensive Line

In my opinion, the key to Miami's offensive success is the play they get out of their offensive line. Jake Long, Justin Smiley, and Jake Grove make up a who's who of names on that line, but Vernon Carey and Donald Thomas aren't exactly slouches either.

The unit is gaining continuity together and they are one of the most physical units in the entire league. And they can generally handle a four-man pass rush with no problem. They are young and good.

Formations

The Dolphins are primarily a run-based team, especially on running downs (first and second, four-minute drill, etc.). On first down, they generally line up with 21 personnel (a running back, fullback, tight end, and two receivers).

Occasionally, you'll get a two-tight end look, or a three-receiver look, but by and large they like the 21 personnel grouping on run downs. From this they normally will give you an I-Formation with the fullback and tailback both lined up directly behind the QB. Sometimes they'll motion the tight end across to give them a numbers advantage to one side or the other.

On passing downs, the Dolphins will get slightly more exotic. You'll see some three-receiver sets, both from a one-back look, but also a lot from a Split backfield—something not seen too often in the NFL anymore. Again, by having two backs, it allows them to get their best pass-catchers on the field, who are probably their backs.

The Dolphins don't use the shotgun out of their base offense too often, but will do so if they are expecting a blitz, which grants Henne an extra second to make reads and find an open man down field.

Occasionally, they'll throw in an empty backfield look, which is based more on the play they call than to give them some kind of extra advantage, personnel-wise.

Play Concepts

I'll start with the "Wildcat" since likely that's what everyone wants to know about. It is a really simple offense. In fact, the high school team I coach uses many of these same exact concepts in our "Spread Offense".

Miami runs a fly sweep with a motion man coming across the formation, taking the ball, almost like a reverse. The play is designed to hit outside and generally there are two or three perimeter blockers, including the fullback out of the backfield.

With this motion, the defense tends to over-pursue, which is when Brown will keep it and run away from the sweep to open grass. Other times, the motion man will not get the ball but will lead through the "C" gap on the same side. The fullback and a pulling lineman all block hit gap which leads to a large gaping hole for Ronnie Brown to run through.

Those are the base plays out of the Wildcat, and they will undoubtedly be on display in Miami on Sunday afternoon. But let's not forget the I-Formation running the Dolphins do as well.

They will run some zone, but are one of the few offenses remaining who are primarily a man-to-man blocking unit, where they pull linemen on counters and traps. These runs are quicker runs designed to insure the running back picks up positive yards, assuming it is blocked well. The zone is a little more hit or miss.

Because the backs are so good, they can run all types of plays. Brown and Williams are explosive, but also good in-between-the-tackles runners. This is why the Dolphins lead the league in rushing. They have a very good line and very good running backs.

In the passing game, the Dolphins keep it relatively simple. Henne has a great arm, so they're going to allow him to take some shots. As I mentioned Ginn has great speed and they like to have him run "Go" routes, where he runs up the sideline and tries to beat a corner man-to-man.

They'll throw some quick bubble screens to Bess where he is an inside receiver and flares outside with blocking from the perimeter receivers. This is generally done in a run situation.

Play-action is a huge part of what the Dolphins do in their base package. The threat of the run sucks up the safeties and allows them to run Ginn deep with Bess coming underneath in case Ginn cannot get separation, or in case the defense plays zone coverage.

But also beware of the backs out of the backfield. They will swing out on almost every pass play, unless there is heavy pressure. You must know where they are at all times, or they will burn you in the passing game.

With a team that likes to play aggressively and blitz like the Saints, expect the Dolphins to have some screens in their gameplan. Again defensively New Orleans must beware of these, as Williams and Brown are explosive with the ball in their hands.

So Gregg Williams, How Are You Going to Respond?

"Well Saints fans, the key to stopping this unit is to not let them on the field. We must cause turnovers to get them off the field. How do we do that? Cause pressure."

Sounds familiar, doesn't it? Of course, that was not actually Gregg Williams speaking, but that likely would be his answer if he were asked such a question. The Saints in this game will likely have a pretty standard game plan.

First and second down, play some cover three to stop the play-action deep pass, but give yourself eight guys who can defend against the run.

On third down, that's when you get more aggressive and bring pressure. The pressure on third down is designed to make Henne make quick decisions and throw before he's ready. But it also is meant to cause sacks and potential turnovers. In all, get the ball back to the offense.

I know this sounds elementary, and of course it is more complicated than this. But in truth, the Saints defense doesn't need a super-elaborate game plan.

Play primarily eight men in the box on running downs, bring some pressure from that as well, and play man-to-man on the backs with linebackers or Roman Harper.

For this reason, let's hope Scott Fujita is able to play this week because he would be key to have as a coverage linebacker. If not, I would use Bobby McCray as a rush end and just blitz him every down and slide Shanle to Fujita's cover area with Vilma keeping his normal responsibility.

Five are harder to block than four. And if successful, this will take those backs out of the passing game, which gives you an advantage right there.

But the biggest key, and this really goes back to the offense, is to score early and often. If you can force the Dolphins to play catch up, you eliminate the element of surprise and explosive plays from the "Wildcat". Oh yeah, defense get off the field on third down. That would help too.

Black & Gold X's & O's: Day-After Coaches-Style Review of Win Over Giants

Will Osgood — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:22:09 -0400

In my preview columns for the game against the Giants, there were a few areas I thought to be very important in order for the Saints to come out victorious on Sunday. In my estimation, they did all of these very well.

1. Eliminate turnovers, because the Giants score off them. The Saints had zero turnovers in Sunday's game. Drew Brees only threw one pass all day that could've been picked, and it was instead caught by Lance Moore on a ricochet.

Defensively, the Saints caused two turnovers. For all you math majors out there, this is good for a +2 turnover differential. Anytime you can do that in a game you have a very good opportunity to win.

2. Get an early lead. Obviously the Saints did this with another opening-possession touchdown and following that up with touchdowns on the next three possessions for a 20-3 lead. It seems pretty obvious that when playing at home with a lead, the crowd will stay in the game and the defense can play with attitude and swagger, which is so important to playing good defensive football.

3. Establish the run. Despite Brees' hot start, the Saints remained balanced the entire game as far as run-to-pass ratio. It was not as effective as I expected it to be from a yardage perspective, but it definitely opened up play-action and kept the Giants defense off balance.

4. Find a way to pressure Eli Manning. The Saints did not record as many sacks or have as many interceptions as a result of pressure as they have earlier this season, but remember that the Giants offensive line is probably the best in the game.

Saints defenders were in Eli's face enough to cause errant, hurried throws and their pressure did cause an interception, as well as give them the ball inside the Giants' 10-yard line at the end of the first half because of Scott Shanle's return. Pressure definitely played a role in this game for the Saints defense.

Areas of Concern for the Saints Going Forward

1. Kickoff coverage. Domenick Hixon repeatedly gashed our coverage for long returns, despite good hangtime and length from Thomas Moorstead. Most of the time the struggle was in staying in lanes and outside guys not playing perpendicular to the ball-carrier, as they are taught.

Because of this, Hixon was able to get outside the contain man. I'm sure Sean Payton is addressing this in today's film review, and the team will do what it can to clean this up for next week and in the future.

2. Scott Fujita's injury. Fujita left the game in the first quarter with an apparent knee injury. As of yet, I have not heard of the severity of the injury. I can only hope the guy who graduated from the same high school as me is okay.

The Saints can handle it if he's out for a few games. But it would be tough to face the Patriots and Falcons, and other playoff teams, without this stud at the strongside linebacker position. His ability to cover down the field and apply pressure when asked is very valuable. Troy Evans is a good backup. Hopefully, he doesn't have to become the starter.

3. The place-kicker position. I know John Carney has done a good job so far this season, but he doesn't have the length any longer to make long field goals. Garrett Hartley can.

Plus, Carney has had two kicks blocked. Sure, that's on other parts of the field goal team as well, but perhaps he's a step slow, or is kicking the ball with too low of a trajectory. I love Carney, but it may be time to let him go.

Position-by-Position Breakdown

QB Drew Brees—A+: Duh!

RB Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell, Reggie Bush, & Heath Evans—B

I thought Thomas struggled in some situations getting as many yards as he is capable. Bell did a good job on the goal-line and in the open field and provided a nice change of pace.

Bush actually provided some big, explosive runs in this game. He didn't put up tons of yards, but was an important part of the run and passing game. Evans had a key hold on a Mike Bell supposed touchdown, but aside from that, played a decent game.

TE Jeremy Shockey & David Thomas—B+

Overall, I thought both did a good job blocking. Shockey was exceptional in the passing game, working the middle of the field. Nice game from this position.

WR Marques Colston, Devery Henderson, Lance Moore, & Robert Meachem—A-

Three of the four had touchdown passes. Surprisingly, it was Henderson who didn't have one, as his biggest contributions came in blocking, which is normally Meachem's job.

Colston, with his big body and superior hands, absolutely destroyed the small Giants corners. Moore looked like the 2008 version of himself, working the seams and short routes.

And Meachem was able to make a few big plays. Slowly but surely his presence is becoming more and more noticeable.

OL Jermon Bushrod, Carl Nicks, Jonathan Goodwin, Jahri Evans, & Jon Stinchcomb—A-

Obviously, the amount of time Brees had to go through progressions and find receivers is again a testament to the job this unit did against a good pass-rushing defensive line. When the Giants applied extra pressure, they picked it up with help from Brees and tight ends and backs.

In the running game, though, they struggled in a few situations. On the goal-line, they are still struggling to knock the defense off the ball, which shouldn't have been a problem against this defensive front.

But they wore on those guys as the game went on and still led their backs to 133 yards rushing. As I said in my preview, I didn't expect the Giants front four to be an issue, and they weren't.

DL Sedrick Ellis, Remi Ayodele, Kendirck Clancy, Will Smith, Charles Grant, & Bobby McCray—B

This group did a better job against the run than they did in getting quarterback pressure. But to be able to hold the Giants to 84 yards rushing isn't too bad. The key part of that was eliminating long runs.

The only time the Giants beat the Saints in the running game was the touchdown run, which was caused more by poor tackling than being blown off the ball, although there was a hole off tackle. This group has had better games, but they weren't horrible by any stretch of the imagination.

LB Jonathan Vilma, Scott Shanle, Scott Fujita, Troy Evans, & Marvin Mitchell—B+

The majority of the pressure that Manning felt was due to blitzing from this group, or the safeties. They did a nice job in coverage and in filling lanes and tackling in the run game.

Secondary Jabari Greer, Tracy Porter, Roman Harper, & Darren Sharper—A+

I thought this was the best game the secondary has played all year. Greer and Porter were fast and physical with the Giants' smaller group of receivers. Roman Harper provided constant pressure and L.O.S. presence in the running game.

Sharper was just Sharper, as he's been all year; although he dropped two interceptions, but should've had another pick-six if not for a roughing-the-passer call against Vilma.

To hold Steve Smith to 44 yards, when the Giants' only chance is to throw the ball, is just incredible. No doubt, this secondary has grown up and improved from a season ago. And it's done it in a hurry.

Next up: The Miami Dolphins and their Wildcat offense. I'll have a preview of it on Wednesday, and then their 3-4 defense on Thursday. Until then, Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Saints Offensive Gameplan vs. Giants

Will Osgood — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 05:29:38 -0400

After watching nearly four full games of the Giants defense, I've come away with a few trends and patterns that Sean Payton—as a playcaller—and Drew Brees can take advantage of in Sunday's mammoth matchup of unbeatens.

Most prominent among these advantages is the Saints' ability to run the football against a less-than-great run defense. The Giants' main difficulty in defending the run is being overaggressive and not playing gap-assignment football.

Linebackers and safeties over-pursue, allowing runners to cut back against the flow of the play and get to the second, and sometimes the third level of the defense.

Teams in recent weeks have been unable to take advantage of this flaw, in part because they've been behind early, but also because they were not as talented at the running back position or as physical at the point of the attack as the Saints likely will be on Sunday.

In the passing game, the middle of the field tends to be open on intermediate to deep seam routes. These openings are generally gained by getting a tight end on one of the linebackers and clearing out the safeties with other routes.

Finally, the Giants can be had in the short passing game by clearing out with deep routes and having a running back or tight end swing out into the flats and allowing them to pick up yards after the catch. To go along with this flooding one side of the field with three receivers will often produce the same result.

More specifically though here is an in-depth gameplan I've come up with. I would expect Sean Payton's to be at least somewhat similar to this one.

First and Second Down

Expect to see a good amount of base personnel (Thomas/Bell and Evans, Shockey, and two receivers) with the tight end lined up on the line of scrimmage.

This will put the Giants in either an over or under defense with an outside linebacker either playing over the tight end or over the opposite tackle. The other two linebackers balance out the core to the other side, but always fly to the ball on run plays.

Because of this I would run inside zone and off tackle runs to the side of the outside linebacker with the cutback as a potential result.

These linebackers are very aggressive, especially when they know the run is working, and sometimes the safety will come up as well. Playaction becomes more than a viable option. Having the tight end fly out to the flat is a favorite play of the Saints.

It is possible to use playaction and push the ball down the field with a series of vertical routes using both receivers and the tight end. Evans could check out into the flat in case that deep throw is unavailable.

Also out of this formation, I would expect to see a reverse to either Robert Meachem or Devery Henderson, away from the linebacker.

I also think we'll see some 11 personnel which would put three receivers, Shockey, and Bush/Thomas on the field. Bush can run from this personnel grouping, but it is also an ideal way to get him involved in the passing game out of the backfield.

We must also not forget the famous swing screen the Saints have used so successfully in prior years, but have yet to showcase this season. Having twin receivers to the opposite side of the tight end should get an open flat area, giving Bush the room he needs to make something exciting happen.

Third Down

The Giants like to get aggressive on third down, as does just about every other NFL defense. This is when they will bring blitzes, or show them and not come. My guess is that in this game they will try to mix it up and throw some zone blitzes at Brees, something they haven't done much of yet this season.

In long-yardage situations, the running game becomes virtually non-existent, although some of those quick screen plays to the receivers are good options. The Giants like to play underneath coverage and keep receivers in front of them. Because of this it is very possible to complete passes on third down, but gaining first downs is difficult.

It is imperative that Henderson, Meachem, and Shockey push their routes past the sticks in order to have the first down prior to catching the football. Meachem and Henderson have the speed to back the defenders up so this shouldn't be a problem.

I would expect to see some deep curl routes on the hashes and some combo routes with a receiver going over the top to occupy a safety.

It is possible to run some sideline routes, because you're getting man-to-man out there, but it is going to have to come from a three-receiver side in order to clear out the rest of the coverage. The crossing route from this should also be open against a linebacker, an advantage for any Saints receiver.

It wouldn't shock me to see a run or two in long-yardage situation, especially if the game situation allows for it. The Giants often will completely clear out their coverage, potentially leaving the middle of the field wide open.

I also think this is possible in medium-to-go situations, but it would probably be on a toss, or a reverse or something to that effect. Screens to the backs would also be good third-and-medium.

In short-yardage, I would go with run formations, and go playaction some of the time, and other times just run the football right up the middle. They can't stop the run routinely.

Red Zone/Goalline

The Giants corners are not big guys, meaning Marques Colston could have a field day in the red zone. The run game remains realistic until you get within two or three yards, at which point playaction is probably a better option. This is also another good time for the swing screen or a reverse even.

Summary

This is kind of a moniker for the whole team and their gameplan, but is extremely important for the Saints not to turn the ball over on Sunday. The Giants just about always capitalize on turnovers. Ball security will at a premium on Sunday.

Running the football will do a couple things. It will tire the Giants front four, force the Giants to be more aggressive than they generally prefer which is always good to get a defense out of their comfort zone, opens up playaction, and allows the vertical throw to open up.

I'm not overly concerned with the Giants front four in this game. Sean Payton is not going to allow them to be a factor because of play selection and a heavy dose of the run. Getting ahead is the key to a Saints victory and I think if they get the ball first they'll be able to do that.

I think the Saints will be able to score. I'm just concerned about whether they can stop the Giants from scoring.

It should be a shootout in the dome on Sunday. It should be fun.

Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Saints Defensive Gameplan Vs. NY Football Giants

Will Osgood — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:21:21 -0400

If you followed any of the NFL offseason discussions in the spring or summer, you would know that one of the largest questions was who, if anyone, would step up for the Giants at the receiver position?

That question has been answered and then some. Steve Smith leads the league in yards and TDs. Mario Manningham is a big-play threat extraordinaire. Hakeem Nicks in recent weeks has provided a third-wheel to what was previously a dynamic duo.

Here is a brief scouting report of the New York Football Giants offense.

QB Eli Manning

Manning is hampered with a bad toe and only played in the first half last week against Oakland. Nonetheless, he had a perfect QB rating and led his team on four scoring drives in that time.

He has excelled in the playaction passing game and on intermediate and deep throws. Where he becomes a little less effective is when he has to scramble, or against pressure (as is true with just about every quarterback).

If Manning gets hurt, former No. 1 overall pick David Carr would take the reigns of the offense. He is very capable, and the offense would not change drastically. Perhaps, there would be a few more rollouts and the running game would become a more integral part of the offense, but volume-wise the Giants would not change much if anything.

RB Brandon Jacobs & Ahmad Bradshaw

Jacobs and Bradshaw make up one of the better RB duos in the league this year. Jacobs is the big physical back who would rather run a defender over than run by him. Bradshaw is also a physical back, but has upper-echelon speed to run by guys as well.

Both are good at catching the ball out of the backfield and do a good job in pass protection.

WR Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, & Hakeem Nicks

Smith runs very precise routes, catches the ball away from his body when necessary, and has good quickness and speed to beat man-to-man coverage. Most of his yards are had by running his patterns and catching the ball, but he is capable of making things happen after the catch. Smith is Manning's undisputed go-to receiver in clutch situations.

Manningham, like Smith, is a smaller receiver who relies on his quickness and speed. He also runs good patterns, and does a good job of catching the ball at its highest point. Manningham is a little more explosive after the catch than Smith, but Manning trusts Smith a little more at this point.

Nicks has developed fairly quickly for a rookie receiver. He is the guy you want to throw the ball to short and let him run with it. He is very strong and has good speed. He also has great hands, and reminds me a lot of Terrell Owens, as far as his build, speed, and style of play.

TE Kevin Boss, Johnson, & Travis Beckum

Boss was hurt a week ago and did not play, but he is the do-it-all TE for the Giants. He is good run-blocking as well as in protecting Eli. He runs good routes when he has his hand in the ground, and when he is lined up in the slot or out wide. He catches the ball well, and is capable of making yards after the catch.

Johnson is mostly used as a blocker, although he will occasionally line up like a receiver in a similar role to Boss. He is not very explosive and can easily be covered by a linebacker.

Beckum is another one of the Giants' exciting young receiving prospects. They have included him in the gamplan about the same time that Nicks started becoming a part of the plan. He is very versatile and is basically a receiver wearing a TEs number. He is quick with good hands, and an ability to run after the catch. They don't ask him to do a lot of blocking.

Offensive Line

The Giants offensive line has been together for three years straight now. That continuity is a big reason the Giants rank as one of the best teams running the football and protect Eli Manning very well. They haven't seen a ton of blitzes this season, but generally handle them well.

What The Giants Do Scheme-Wise

The Giants are a bit more traditional in their schemes than much of the current NFL. They use a lot of Base personnel (two backs, a tight end, and two receivers). They will generally start the game in this and try to stay in it as much as possible.

On only snap in four games did they ever use more than three receivers in the game at one time. It is more common for them to use three receivers, a tight end, and a back. Or sometimes they'll use two tight ends and three receivers and go Empty.

They also line up a lot with two tight ends, a back, and two receivers, which is another good running formation. However, in passing situations, they will generally resort to the 11 or 12 personnel, as mentioned in the previous paragraph.

In the running game, they are pretty basic. They like to run the inside zone, but also will run a zone play, that is not a stretch or inside zone, where they are trying to hit the play off-tackle. They also will use the stretch on occasion. Finally they like to run counter trey from a couple different formations.

In the passing game, they use a lot of playaction, much of which is used to hit Smith or Manningham on deep routes. The Giants use the entire route tree, and because of that they are difficult to stop. They work the middle of the field with Dig routes quite a bit. They'll throw the post over the top of that on occasion.

They'll throw crossing routes in short-yardage situations. They also like slant routes in short-yardage situations. They also like to flood one side of the field with receivers, as they have a shallow, intermediate, and deep route to find a hole in the zone coverage.

Truth be told, I didn't find any real holes in their passing game. They can do it all. They also like screens out of the backfield.

Gregg Williams' Gameplan

Honestly, I have no idea how to stop this offense. They do so many things well. While they are not going to trick you, they don't have to. They execute as well, if not better than anyone else.

The key, as is normally the case, is to get them into long-yardage situations. In order to do this, you must commit to stopping the run on early downs. Of course, getting ahead in the game would help as well.

I guess the biggest thing is to bring up the eighth defender but move him back into a cover two shell if the Giants elect to throw the ball. Mix this up between Harper and Sharper. Give them different looks, so that they cannot start choosing a side they want to send their receivers to.

I would play the receivers press man with that cover two shell. This should stop the receivers effectiveness against zone coverage. I would also mix in some Robber One coverage which is where a linebacker takes the intermediate middle of the field and a safety works over the top of him. This is to stop those post-dig combo routes.

I would play Johnson and Boss with linebackers. Beckum I would probably play with Sharper or a cornerback.

Blitzes can be effective, especially on third down. They need to be well thought out and well-executed though, because if they are not Manning will burn one-on-one coverage.

The noise of the dome and an early lead would be huge helpers in this game. If neither of these happen, it could be a long day Sunday afternoon, at least for the Saints defense.

Black and Gold Xs and Os: Offensive Gameplan vs. the Joker, Err...the Jets

Will Osgood — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:02:58 -0400

The New York Jets are a good football team. Their offense is dangerous, but their defense is proven lethal. They are coordinated by their head coach, Rex Ryan. And they are a reflection of their head coach—confident, brash, and down right good.

They like to throw the kitchen sink at you and when they've done that, then they blow up the house.

I once heard a college offensive coordinator talk about Nick Saban's defenses on third down as being impossible to figure out because you literally never get the same look.

The same is true of Ryan's defenses. There is no pattern, no rhyme or reason. If Heath Ledger were alive he'd probably play Rex Ryan in a movie. Or maybe Rex Ryan's goal is to be confused with the joker. Whatever the case is, he has no doubt struck fear into the hearts of Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints offense.

It is not pointless, but it is difficult to describe the Jets defensive scheme. But I can tell you very eloquently about some of the players performing that scheme.

Jets Defensive Personnel

NT Kris Jenkins

Jenkins is a former Carolina Panther who excels playing the nose in Ryan's hybrid defense. One play he is right in the face of the center, the next he's standing up behind a linebacker ready to blitz. It is the craziest thing I've ever seen on film. The chaos only begins with Jenkins though.

DE/OLB Vernon Gholston

A season ago Gholston was a lost cause. But Rex Ryan has allowed Gholston the freedom to just play, for all intents and purposes. On four down linemen sets, Gholston will put his hand on the ground.

In the more common 3-4 sets, Gholston lines up outside the tackle and mostly blitzes, but occasionally drops into coverage. The Saints would love to find this guy out trying to cover a tight end or running back. Otherwise, he'll probably in Drew Brees' face.

ILB David Harris

The Michigan Alum is really the heart and soul of this defense. He makes the calls, and makes many of the plays as well. He is extremely instinctive, with good range, and really solid playmaking ability. He is the best Jets best cover guy among the linebackers, but also excels when blitzing the QB.

LB Bart Scott

It is hard to tell whether Scott is a true OLB, or ILB, because as I've said Ryan moves his guys around, and there's really no rhyme or reason to any of it. Either way, he lines up much of the time outside, but plays a lot of coverage. He is good in coverage, but really excels in the run game. He too is a playmaker.

CB Darrell Revis

Revis has developed into one of the best corners in the entire game. He is wonderful in man-to-man coverage, as he always draws the opponents best receiver. He is also very instinctive in zone coverage (granted the Jets play zone about one out of every hundred snaps, but still).

S Jim Leonhard

Like Scott, Leonhard followed Ryan to New Jersey when he got the head job. Leonhard has assumed the Ed Reed position in Ryan's hybrid defense. He will come up and play the run on occasion, but more often than not he is the lone deep safety in a very aggressive man-to-man coverage scheme.

Some Scheme-Related Information

There are a few things that are easy to recognize for even the common fan about the Jets defense.

One is that they are extremely creative, and love to blitz. They will do this a variety of ways. Many times they overload one side of the line, in an attempt to outman that side. Other times, they'll bring more balanced numbers but delay certain members of the blitz. They are almost always in perfect synchronicity with their stunts and blitzes.

Second, you notice that they play tons of man-to-man coverage. They are more than happy to allow Revis, Lito Sheppard, and Dwight Lowery to play their guys straight up knowing they have Leonhard back to clean up any mess. But they're able to do this because they are counting on the pressure to force poor throws or to result in a sack.

Third, the linebackers are all very versatile. Part of the reason I mentioned three of them is that they are really the base, or the rock of the defense. They make this defense. The defense is designed for them to make plays.

They blitz, they play coverage, both underneath zone, but also man-to-man. They are fed ball carriers in the running game. They also will get down in a three-point stance and straight rush the QB on occasion. It is a very diverse system, which makes it nearly impossible for the QB to know where the pressure is coming from.

How To Calm The Joker's Effect

I expect Sean Payton to call a lot of pass plays early on for a couple reasons. The first reason is that success will give the offense confidence in their ability to protect and move the football.

The second is a necessity to be ahead on this defense. If you are behind against these guys, you may as well give up because you're done. Finally, by throwing effectively against their heavy blitz, heavy man-to-man scheme it will force them to calm down a little and play some more base defense.

If you can get them into their base defense (and who knows what that actually is), you can better predict what you're going to get, which of course makes play-calling easier and generally frees up the running game.

Specific Gameplan

In the passing game, I would expect a lot of Empty sets, which is a catalyst (in the scientific sense) for the blitz. Now why if I'm an offensive play-caller would I intentionally ask for a blitz? Well, when the other team is playing man-to-man and you have a QB who makes quick decisions and possesses a quick release, that is actually exactly what you want.

They can run eight to 10 yard hitch routes on the outside. They can run drag routes across the middle to get guys running in space. They can throw the hitch screen where they only have to block DBs.

Also, on third down I would look for a lot of "Gun" two-back looks. This could be Shockey, David Thomas, or Heath Evans complementing one of the running backs. This gives you potentially seven blockers against as many as seven rushers.

If the Jets play more coverage these guys can get out to the flats or middle of the field and try to pick it up after the catch.

In the running game, the off tackle, or zone play would work pretty well. Many times in base situations (first or second down and not two-minute or red zone) the Jets will play four down linemen, but place three of them to one side of the line.

They leave the opposite end over the OT. All the OT has to do is kick him out and the rest of the line seals off the rest of the line. Then you lead up the hole with the fullback and just like that you potentially have a 3-5 yard carry without much effort from the running back.

If you know in advance which side this is going to be you can line up a receiver to the side of the lone end and have him crack the outside linebacker on a toss play, in order to get Reggie or Thomas into space. You could also flare them out of the backfield like this, although that leaves them one-on-one with a corner.

To beat the man-to-man coverage you can run some quick routes, but also I propose a route combo where the inside receiver runs a deep-in route and the outside receiver runs a post on top of him.

The safety must choose to help on one of them, and assuming both run good routes by keeping the corner on their hip, the guy who does not attract the safety should be open. You could literally have eight men in protection for this, and the receivers still should get free.

The middle of the field will not be open very often, unless you run to middle routes on different levels to attract the linebackers to one and throw to the other level of the coverage. If the linebackers get depth, Shockey on crossing routes then becomes a good target. If they stay shallow, the deep ball becomes an option.

These are just a few of the concepts I expect to see coming from Sean Payton's call sheet this weekend. He's going to have to pass successfully to open up the running game. Hopefully he stays loyal though to running the ball, because it remains an important element to victory.

It should be a great chess matchup this weekend between Payton and Ryan. It should be a lot of fun. If you love Xs and Os like I do, this is one of the most intriguing games on the entire 2009 NFL calendar.

I know I'll be doing a lot more learning in this one than suggesting (to the t.v.). I can't wait. Until then Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Defensive Gameplan for the Jets

Will Osgood — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 04:45:25 -0400

When the New York Jets enter the Louisiana Superdome on Sunday afternoon (3:15 on CBS), it will likely be the craziest atmosphere Mark Sanchez has ever played a football game in.

Yet to be honest I don't see this effecting him too much. He did play Southern California in front of 90,000+ fans on a regular basis, so he's at least used to rowdy crowds, just they are normally on his side.

The bigger issue that he will face though is a Saints defense that is much improved over a season ago, and will likely give him as many different looks as he's seen in his early career.

Even the number of looks I don't expect to be the issue Sanchez faces though. If the Saints are going to knock off the 3-0 Jets, they are going to have to execute defensively. Sanchez is as poised a young QB as could ever be found. He is also very football smart, and of course extremely talented.

In order to win this football game the Saints are going to have to play their best football of the season on the defensive side of the ball. That's in large part due to Mark Sanchez being the best quarterback they've faced to this point in the season.

It's also due to a productive running game, and a plethora of skill players all who bring something different to the table, and present possible matchup problems for the Saints defense. Here's a closer look at that group of players.

Jets Personnel

RB Thomas Jones

Jones is a veteran who would seemingly have lost a step at this point in his career. But through three games, he looks just as fresh and lively as he's been in the past. He's never been the quickest or fastest back in the league, but he does hit the hole quickly and is explosive enough to get to the second level of the defense and run right through it.

Jones is a threat to catch the ball out of the backfield and also does a wonderful job blocking in the passing game for his rookie QB.

RB Leon Washington

Washington is the Jets' super-utility guy (think Reggie Bush). He returns kicks and punts, plus he takes some snaps in the "Wildcat". Not to mention that he gets about 10 carries a game from under center, and the Jets love to throw him the ball on screen passes and run him on draws to get him out in space. Overall, he is the Jets' most explosive offensive player.

WR Jerricho Cotchery

Cotchery has turned into one of the most reliable receivers in the league and has become a true No.1 target for Sanchez to look to in key situations. He runs good routes and has good hands in order to finish his routes by catching the ball.

He is a difficult guy to tackle with the ball in his hands, and is very physical when going up in traffic to make a catch. He also does a pretty good job blocking in the running game.

TE Dustin Keller

Keller is a large Wide Receiver for all intents and purposes. The Jets do play him on the line and use him to block, but his real value is getting out into a pattern and creating mismatches against linebackers. He has really good speed for the position and super hands.

He is capable of making plays after he catches the ball. However, his blocking leaves something to be desired.

WR Chansi Stuckey

Stuckey came on late last year and has now become the Jets No. 2 receiver. He has good speed, good hands, and is a decent route runner. The Jets like to use him on quick screens and shorter routes to allow him to make things happen with the ball in his hands. That being said, he is a deep threat and must be taken seriously down the field.

WR Brad Smith

Smith is the Jets third receiver. The former Missouri Tiger quarterback has become a decent wide receiver and the Jets like to use him on reverses and he is also a viable "Wildcat" possibility. He has good speed and is a legitimate threat to take it the distance anytime he gets the ball.

Offensive Line

This is a veteran group that has been together for over an entire season. Because of this they have continuity, which is so crucial to the success of an offensive line.

They are not the most physical line in the history of football, but they do open holes for their backs. They also do a really good job of giving Mark Sanchez enough time to find receivers downfield.

Formations

The Jets are the second most complicated team the Saints have faced so far. They do a lot of different things personnel and formation-wise.

They like to go two backs and start in an offset-I, and will often run the football to the side of the tight end in these formations, especially on a counter-lead.

They also like to go to some three-receiver sets and put the tight end on the side of two receivers, giving them a 3x1 look. They will often run the inside zone play away from the three receiver side.

It is not uncommon for them to get into the "Gun" in long-yardage situations. When they do this, they primarily go 2x2 with Keller being split out wide. The other possible formation they show a lot of is the Gun w/ a two back look, although Keller usually is one of the two "backs".

Some other formations the Saints should be wary of are some Empty packages, where Keller and Washington are split out wide with three receivers. Additionally, the Wildcat with either Washington or Brad Smith are likely to be utilized by the Jets.

Play Concepts

I mentioned some of the things the Jets like to do in the running game, by getting into two backs and running the counter-lead and running the inside zone away from the three receiver side.

It is also important to note the Jets LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to use playaction and screens.

On playaction, their goal is generally to hit it deep. They will run three vertical routes with the receivers (sometimes including Keller) and then send the two backs out into the pattern short to the same side with the fullback going to the flat and the running back to the middle of the field.

The Jets will throw a lot of screens especially on third-and-long situations (3rd-and-seven, or more). Many of these will go to the receivers on quick hitches. Some will go to the slot and are essentially the same play. They will also throw the jailbreak screen, which is a middle screen with the wide receiver.

They have some other screens where they'll get the backs out in space or bring them inside off playaction or other misdirection-type concepts. Keller is also a possible target on these screens.

The draw is also a favorite of theirs in long-yardage situations. They'll get into passing formations and fake the pass and then hand off, generally designed to go up the middle.

If I didn't mention it before, the passing game is a vertical passing game. They like to run three receivers vertical, and then come underneath with another receiver. In short-yardage situations they'll try to bunch you up and run switch patterns to mix up man-to-man coverage. The passing game is very similar to what the Saints like to do offensively.

What Gregg Williams Will Dial Up To Stop This Explosive Unit

As I said, the Jets try to give you a lot of different looks offensively. The Saints handled that pretty well when they faced the Eagles.

The running game is a power running game, with a physical back and a good change of pace back. They like to use playaction and throw a lot of screens and run draws. But they also like to go deep.

Keeping all those things in mind, I am going to suggest a more aggressive plan than I have in recent weeks.

In order to stop the inside zone against the 3x1 look I would stay balance and not overreact to this look. I would allow Scott Fujita to match up with Keller most times, at least in this formation.

I would then have my backside DE slant inside which should kill the backside tackles kick-out block. I also have my DT on that side slant into the B gap, to completely kill that gap. Then I have Vilma blitz the A gap and Shanle come outside and keep contain against a possible cutback.

Against the two back look I play the counter-lead. To do this effectively, Roman Harper must come up and be the eighth man in the box. He is the guy who will make most of the tackles on this play.

I would play a lot of man-to-man against these guys. Sure, they have speed and are dangerous, but blitzing is necessary. I would back it up with some cover two looks, especially focusing on helping Fujita when matched up against Keller.

As for the blitzes, I am tempted to zone blitz by dropping Sedrick Ellis, as they've done already on a number of occasions. The problem with this is the quickness of all the Jets players. He cannot stay with any of them.

Also, I failed to mention before, but in pass pro against the blitz, they tend to slide their entire line one way, which is very good against an overload blitz. For this reason, I would stay away from the overload. Instead, I would use blitzes where the backers come from both sides, and bring safeties and corners again much like last week.

So I guess the game plan is pretty similar to last weeks. I would be a little surprised to see three down linemen on the field every play. I think Williams will mix up his fronts a little more and try to keep Sanchez off guard. He will disguise blitzes and coverages.

None of this is really very new. Sanchez has seen this stuff before. But where the Saints have a chance to show something new is in the execution. Every coach knows the gamplan is only as good as the players performing it. The Saints certainly have the players. Let's just hope the plan works.

Thursday I will preview the Jets' defense and tell you how Sean Payton is likely to attack it. Until then, Geaux Saints!

Back to Buffalo: How the Saints Showed Sunday They Got "It"

Will Osgood — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 03:29:12 -0400

I think most Saints fans would agree that Sunday's win in Buffalo was the most complete game the Saints have played so far in their fast 3-0 start.

Some might complain that the offense looked a little out of sorts. And frankly, it's true, they definitely were: especially the always-precise passing game.

But in truth, that's also the biggest reason for optimism for this year's version of the New Orleans Saints. Let's be honest, there's no way New Orleans could realistically contend for a title with the defense and running game of the past few years.

But now those two elements of the football team look like strengths. And before we freak out about the passing game, let's remember Sean Payton is one of the best play-callers and play-designers in the entire NFL, and he knows the passing game. That will get righted quicker than you can say "boo."

Let's take a look back at the tape to see where some of the issues in the passing game were, and how they can be fixed.

Film Review

Offensively, the Saints actually looked really good in the first half, with the exception of a couple timely mistakes. There was a penalty that stalled a drive.

On another, it was a poorly run flat route by Devery Henderson where he drifted up the field making it impossible for him to come back on a short throw by Brees. If he simply runs the route flat, he makes the catch, and probably beats DT Marcus Stroud up the sideline for a first down and more.

On the final drive where a conversion was possible, Brees actually chose Shockey over a much more open Henderson, which would've led to a first down and another chance at seven instead of settling for a short field goal.

There were two other plays where balance on the receivers' part cost the Saints a completion, and therefore a possible conversion.

You could blame it on field conditions, or on the players just not concentrating enough to stay low and compact in and out of their breaks.

As for some of the protection issues, it was caused in large part to some blitzes and stunts and twists that Buffalo had not previously shown, and the Saints simply did not respond to them quickly enough.

The other half of the problem though was an offensive tackle bending at the waist and allowing the pass rusher to cross his face.

For the most part these are all concentration issues more than physical limits of the players. The offensive staff, I'm sure, emphasized these things on Monday while reviewing the film.

Attention to detail must be emphasized more on the offensive side of the ball. These little things can make a huge difference in a close game.

There were a few other plays where Brees made a poor read on his choice of who to throw the ball to. We all know Brees will police himself and clean that up.

On the defensive side of the ball, there are very few things to be critical of. Gregg Williams had a tremendous game plan and the players executed it nearly flawlessly.

I found it interesting that the Saints used three down linemen exclusively. There was not one play on the day that the Saints used more than the three on the line. Also, Bobby McCray lined up as an edge rusher (or outside linebacker) and did an adequate job in that role.

The Saints substituted liberally on the line, and it did not seem to matter who they put in the game; they contributed significantly.

Will Smith had a wonderful game, as he was around the ball constantly and did a really good job getting penetration in the running game, in addition to setting the edge and keeping contain.

Charles Grant definitely stepped up with good gap assignment in the running game and showed a burst we haven't seen in awhile when rushing the passer. And Sedrick Ellis was his usual disruptive self.

Out of the linebackers I thought Scott Fujita played his best game of the season. He did get beat one time in coverage when matched up with Josh Reed because he overextended towards Reed instead of staying compact and allowing Reed to come to him. Aside from that play though, Fujita was a disruptive force in the backfield and played well in coverage.

In the secondary, Roman Harper was quite impressive again when he came up to play the run. He did a wonderful job of tackling and even played pretty fairly in coverage.

I would be remiss to not mention how outstanding the running game was offensively. The offensive line was the key as they got off the ball and provided some really clean holes for Lynell Hamilton, Reggie Bush, and Pierre Thomas to run through.

Bush looked very quick, and I thought ran very well and with conviction. He hit the hole hard and just got what he could. Of course Thomas looked wonderful, running with great pad level, burst, and vision.

It's really scary for defenses to look at the Saints balanced offense. They know Brees will not be off too many more times this season, yet they still have to contend with Thomas, Bush, and Bell when he is back.

The Saints won ugly Sunday, but it was a good kind of ugly. It was the type that often wins games in the playoffs.

We can trust Brees likely had his worst game of the season (although he didn't throw an interception), meaning watch out, NFL. These Saints are for real. Let's just hope the injury bug doesn't bite too hard.

Up next is another 3-0 team, the Jets. I'll give you a defensive gameplan preview over the next day or two, and then an offensive preview shortly thereafter. Until then, Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: New Orleans Saints Offensive Gameplan vs. Buffalo

Will Osgood — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:57:40 -0400

On Sunday afternoon in Buffalo, New York, the New Orleans Saints offense will face a different defense than they've seen the past two weeks. They'll see a defense that relies a lot on speed and physicality, keeps their package relatively simple—although not as simple as their offense—and just flat-out executes.

Of course the Saints offense is a model of precision and execution. They too rely more on execution than flare. They are a complicated offense and much of the time creative, but the plan week-to-week is never tremendously different.

Teams like New England, Denver, and the New York Jets are all gameplan teams. The Saints are a "here's what we do, try and stop us" kind of team. And so is Buffalo, on both sides of the ball.

But that doesn't mean Sean Payton and Pete Carmichael, Jr. are not fervently watching film of the Buffalo defense to pick up tendencies. In fact, what it means is they are trying to figure out the right down and distance to run what formations and plays.

But before I get too much into that, allow me first to tell you a little more about the Buffalo defense.

Buffalo Defensive Personnel and Scheme

Big Marcus Stroud is quite a load inside at the defensive tackle position. He allows for the rest of the offensive line to consistently win one-on-one battles against the other offensive linemen. Former LSU star Kyle Williams joins him on the inside of the line to provide a nice interior on the defensive line.

On the ends are Chris Kelsay and Aaron Schobel. Aaron Maybin, the No. 11 pick in the 2009 draft, also rotates quite often in that group to give them some explosion off the edge.

The middle three—also known as linebackers—are Kawika Mitchell, Marcus Buggs, and Keith Ellison. Mitchell is a very aggressive player who is effective in coverage, even man-to-man against TEs and RBs. Buggs is a small guy for MLB position, but has very good range and ability to cover. Ellison is kind of a mix of the two.

In the secondary, the Bills start Leodis McKelvin and Terrance McGee on the corners and Donte Whitner and Brian Scott at the safety spots. McKelvin is a wonderful athlete, but often gets turned around in man-to-man coverage. McGee is a very solid corner who excels in zone coverage, but can cover man-to-man as well.

Brian Scott often walks up to add an extra defender to play the run, much like Roman Harper does for the Saints. Donte Whitner plays a lot of the deep safety spot in Cover Three or One. Occasionally, they will change it up and switch the two. Reggie Corner is the nickelback (appropriate name, don't you think?), who actually stays outside and McGee or McKelvin play the slot.

From a scheme perspective, the Bills do not blitz a ton. When they do, it is generally out of a stack look, where they bring all three backers up and put them right in the line's face. From that they will still usually drop one or two, sometimes with a zone blitz.

In base packages (first and second down, normal game time), the defensive ends play outside shade of the tackle, or if there is a tight end, outside shade of him. This of course works well to get a rush upfield on the QB. But it leaves them vulnerable to the off-tackle run.

To make up for this, they either slant their DTs into the B or C Gap, or run-blitz their linebackers into those gaps that would otherwise be occupied by defensive ends.

The Bills play a lot of Man-One, meaning the corners play man-to-man, as well as the linebackers, who grab a TE or RB in coverage. This is where Whitner plays that deep safety spot.

Occasionally, they'll play some two-man—two deep safeties with man coverage underneath. They'll also play Cover Three, with the corners playing zone coverage as well the deep safety.

What The Saints Will Do To Combat This

I already mentioned the defensive ends playing outside shade of the tackles or tight ends. Because of this, look for Sean Payton to call a lot of plays that go off tackle, primarily the Power O (or even inside zone, but without the cutback option for the tailback). Lead up the hole with the playside guard and fullback to get the linebackers, who are crashing through the vacant hole left by the DE.

Because the linebackers take the running backs out of the backfield, look for Reggie Bush, Heath Evans, and Pierre Thomas to be active in the passing game.

Formation-wise, I expect to see Reggie and Jeremy Shockey to line up out wide quite a bit, to see if in fact, they do get a linebacker in man-to-man coverage. If indeed they do, obviously they become option No. 1 for Brees at the snap of the ball.

This could be especially effective in the red zone, and can also be effective for eliminating a linebacker in the running game.

Because of their wide arrangement along the line and being cramped up as linebackers, the swing screen also becomes a great option this week, although Tampa Bay tried it a few times last week, to little avail. Nonetheless, it is worth a shot with some guy named Reggie Bush.

And by spreading the Bills out with four receiver sets, even if that includes Bush and Shockey, you force them into defensive personnel groupings that they are not very comfortable with. This opens the field way up.

Also, because they play so much with the one-high safety look, expect to see a lot of post-dig, post-cross type combo routes. The middle of the field will open as wide as the Red Sea with the passing schemes the Saints use. Even a post running at the safety alongside a post-corner running at the corner, in cover three, should be wide open.

In truth, this is a physical defense, and that is how they are successful. This game will be less about scheme, and more about coming out and not backing down to the Bills' toughness. If the Saints can do that, they should have no problem scoring points. I doubt it will be another 45-plus point outing, but I would expect four or five touchdowns.

Enjoy the game, and Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: The New Orleans Saints' Defensive Gameplan vs. Buffalo

Will Osgood — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 05:50:41 -0400

When Dick Jauron fired Dick Schonert a week prior to the beginning of the season for having too many formations and too many plays, we all were thinking Buffalo was in trouble. Since then, Offensive Coordinator Alex Van Pelt has simplified the offense greatly while keeping the no-huddle aspect.

The thing nobody saw coming was this move resulting a more productive offense. In this day and age, the most successful offenses are the ones with the most sophistication (but of course they must be well-executed).

The truth is the Bills are about as complicated offensively as a modern high school team, yet they are moving the football and scoring points.

The main reason for this is that with two stud receivers outside, the running game is opened up. But likely that will change. After last week's 167 yard performance, teams must focus on RB Fred Jackson.

Let's investigate further what the Bills do offensively, and then figure out what Gregg Williams is going to try to do stop this suddenly potent offense.

Personnel

The Bills have three stars on offense: Terrell Owens, Lee Evans, and Fred Jackson. After them, Josh Reed and Roscoe Parrish are good slot receivers who provide versatility and speed to stretch the defense.

The Bills are thin at the tight-end position. They may be down to third-stringer Derek Fine and former practice squad member Stupar (not sure of his first name). They also lost one of their starting linemen in Sunday's game, so they are really stretched thin on the line.

At quarterback, Trent Edwards has shown some improvement from the past few years, although he is still a relatively slow decision-maker who has a propensity to force some passes into coverage. He is a good athlete and likes to get to the outside and make things happen. But he never steps up into the pocket to scramble.

It is also notable that the Bills are starting two rookies on the offensive line, and although they are very physical, it is an inexperienced group in general who lacks any significant continuity (in my opinion the most important element to successful line play).

Formations

As I noted above, the Bills are relatively simple in what they do. They showed only 13 different formations in the game against Tampa Bay, although that doesn't count flipping the formation to the opposite side.

They do not have a true fullback, and, in fact, never line anyone up in such a formation. Occasionally they will put a tight end back there when they're lined up in the shotgun, and that's the closest thing they get to a two-back formation.

They like to run two-tight end sets, but they may be limited in that this week due to their difficulty to keep players at that position healthy. When they go with this personnel grouping, they generally use a wing formation (line them both up on the same side of the formation next to each other with one about a yard back and to the side) and keep a receiver on the side of the wing making it a 3x1 look.

In their other base personnel group—three receivers, one tight end, and one running back—they are a little more diverse. From this, they'll go under center and in the gun.

They'll use 3x1 and 2x2 formations with the tight end lined up on the line. They are still a threat to run from these setups. They also like to use slot motion into the backfield from the three-receiver side (generally it is Roscoe Parrish, although it could be Reed as well).

Finally, they'll stay with the 11 personnel (three receivers, tight end, and running back) but go empty. From this, they have two formations—one where the tight end lines up inline, the other he becomes a slot receiver. They have not shown any kind of QB run yet from this formation, or any version of the wildcat, but that doesn't mean it isn't possible.

Play Concepts

From their two-tight end formations, they really like to run a toss sweep to the strong side (the side with the two tight ends). They pull the playside guard to get up into the hole in an effort to get the running back to the second level. They ran this several times to both sides against Tampa Bay.

Also from this formation they like to run the inside zone, where they slant the line to the side of the handoff. Jackson, or whoever is running the ball, has the option to find a hole in the direction the linemen are slanting or can cutback against the flow, which against a crashing aggressive defense like the Saints is generally going to be wide open.

They bring the winged tight end across the play to cut off the backside defensive end to create that cutback lane.

From this play they set up a bootleg rollout where that tight end becomes Edwards's main option, although they'd love to throw that ball deep as well.

Their really isn't a lot to their passing game in general. The outside receivers vertical routes about 60 percent of the time. Sometimes they will have their slots and tight ends run vertical routes, and bring T.O. or Evans back under on crossing routes to get those guys the ball in space.

On most pass plays, the slots have an option route where they can run inside or outside. They basically read the safety nearest them and run away from them.

One interesting trend (perhaps) is that they try to be unpredictable by throwing on seemingly obvious running situations, and running in what seem to be passing situations.

What the Saints Must Do Defensively to Stop This Offense

In many ways this will be the simplest defensive gameplan Gregg Williams puts together all year. It should be a gameplan rooted in fundamentals. My theory is that the Saints defense is more talented man-for-man than the Bills offense. And since the Bills are a fundamentals team, the key is execution.

Therefore keep it fairly simple and the day should go pretty well.

The Bills tend to keep the same personnel in for an entire series, meaning the Saints can commit to defensive personnel immediately and ride that group for an entire series.

The biggest question is how to match up with the Bills 11 personnel grouping (three receivers). Frankly, there is nobody on the Saints starting defense who can match up man-to-man with Josh Reed or Roscoe Parrish in the slot.

However, Randall Gay certainly could do at least an adequate job. Therefore, I would expect to see a lot of nickel package being used this weekend. The only issue is that this weakens the run defense.

Therefore, I move Roman Harper up in the box to play almost as a third linebacker. Then I would play One man and Cover Three in the secondary primarily. That way I always have an equal number to defend in the run game and a man advantage to defend in the passing game.

My linebackers can easily play the tight ends in coverage, so I allow them to man up with those guys.

From a pressure standpoint, I'm not going to worry too much about blitzing (starting to sound like a broken record, which is funny since I love to blitz). Tampa Bay got ample pressure, and you could even say more pressure, when they simply rushed their four down linemen.

They were able to do this by using stunts, twists, and games. That being said, I would mix in some zone blitzes, especially on 3rd-and-short.

As far as playing the inside zone, I would really preach staying in lanes and playing gap-assignment football this week. Stay in your lane, don't try to do someone else's job. That way you are ready for the cutback run. The backside must stay at home and play contain, including the weakside linebacker (Scott Shanle).

This is also important when playing the inside zone against the three-receiver set when they'll bring that receiver across to make it look like a reverse.

Summary

Buffalo is a simple offense. If we out-execute them, we should win. The key objective really is to make a wall around them, both versus the run and the pass. Do not allow Edwards to scramble outside; keep him in the pocket. Against the inside zone, same thing. Keep him inside where Roman Harper can come up and make the play.

Even if Buffalo shows something new this week, it likely will stay the same throughout the game, so it will not be hard to adjust to. Gregg Williams should be able to adjust in time to fix things for the rest of the game.

And oh yeah, their passing game is a vertical game, so at all cost, don't get beat deep. The prevent-style defense can actually be very effective against these guys.

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Coach-Style Review of Win Over Eagles

Will Osgood — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:42:59 -0400

It's hard to critique an offensive performance in which the team scores five touchdowns and wins 48-22 against the Philadelphia Eagles, but I'm going to do it anyway.

Observations from the tape

On the second offensive possession, the Saints had the ball, first-and-goal at the 7-yard line.

On first down, they ran the ball into the boundary against an unblocked safety and lost one yard.

On second down, they ran the fake toss swing-screen to running back Reggie Bush. Quarterback Drew Brees threw behind Bush for an incompletion.

On third-and-goal, they go with a "3-by-1" formation with wide receiver Marques Colston running a flat and tight end Jeremy Shockey running a quick-look route and either Devery Henderson or Lance Moore (can't tell which) running a post.

Shockey was initially open over the middle, but Brees did not recognize it quick enough. By the time he was ready to throw, an Eagles defensive end had Shockey covered.

At that point, Shockey should have straightened his route up and run straight at the safety to open up the post.

But because he brought it toward the middle, the safety found the post and forced Brees to check down to Colston in the flat. The Saints settled for a field goal instead of a touchdown.

At this point in the game, a touchdown would have been big. It proves the Saints have more work to do, even offensively.

On the next offensive possession—the first possession of the second quarter—the Saints moved the ball beautifully down the field, picked up a long third-down conversion before running the ball successfully on two plays to get to third-and-2.

Instead of trusting the running game, head coach Sean Payton called for a play-action rollout.

It was not a bad call, but at that point the running game was pretty dominant. I would've liked to see a run called. The fact the pass was intercepted is more disappointing than anything.

Eagles linebacker Akeem Jordan made one heck of a play. Tip your hat to him. Brees' interceptions almost always come on fluke plays like that, but they're frustrating nonetheless.

From a defensive perspective, I thought the Saints played pretty well overall, especially schematically.

The main problem they had in the first half was tackling. Most of the time they were in position but could not wrap the guy up, leading to a few first downs.

I thought it was important to hold the Eagles to a field goal on their second-to-last drive of the first half, although defensive end Anthony Hargrove should have had an interception and denied the Eagles any points at all.

On the long pass play to Eagles receiver DeSean Jackson, it was simply a miscommunication between safeties Darren Sharper and Roman Harper.

I think they'll get those cleaned up as they get more familiar with the defense.

And the final series before the end of the half was obviously disappointing. Up to that point, the Saints were playing well in man-to-man.

I wish defensive coordinator Gregg Williams would've just taken his chances playing straight up. I think a field goal may not have occurred if such a defense was played. But he's Gregg Williams and I'm not, so take that for what it's worth.

In the second half, the Saints were pretty much dominant in all ways.

I feel like I'm nitpicking, but the Saints offense found itself in their first "backed-up" situation this season and they could not run the ball off the goal line.

That is something they should look to address this week and in the coming weeks.

Here are the positional grade breakdowns:

Quarterback—A

Only one played and he played probably an even better game than his nationally recognized season debut. Against a defense which throws everything at you, I thought Brees was a calming force.

Aside from the one red zone falter, I thought his decision-making was flawless.

His ability to move in the pocket is probably what makes him GREAT. The fact that he stands in versus the blitz and throws almost perfect balls as he's getting hit, separates him from most quarterbacks.

I could go on about how well Brees played Sunday, but the truth is everyone already knows.

I thought he had two throws that were incredible. One was to Colston on a seam-route and the other was a go-route to Henderson as he was getting crushed. Wow.

Running Backs—B+

The numbers may not be as good as some games, but I think this was one of Bush's best games as a professional.

He was decisive in hitting the hole and in making cuts. He blocked well in the passing game, ran good routes and caught some key passes.

He struggled a little bit as a punt returner, but that will come. We already know that.

Mike Bell again was explosive as a runner.

He, too, looked very decisive and made great cuts. He reads blocks very well and, though this may sound dumb, did a good job of running away from defenders.

A lot of running backs do not have a sense of avoiding tacklers. He also did an adequate job in pass blocking.

Heath Evans continues to impress for the Saints. He is an explosive fullback that catches the ball naturally. He showed some tremendous run-after-catch ability on his touchdown reception. His balance on that play was amazing.

He needs to improve as a blocker, especially in the running game.

Wide Receivers—A-

Colston got the headlines Sunday, but it's not as if he is the only one in this group who played well.

Colston's flexibility and ability to go up and get the ball make him a very valuable commodity.

He ran good routes and even was used as a checkdown option on a few plays. He engulfs defenders when he is blocking and because of that, can be used in any situation.

Henderson continues to be a big play threat.

His catch Sunday against Sheldon Brown is about as good as it gets. His routes were run well and he only dropped one ball yesterday.

He did fan on one key block, which might have helped Bush get to the outside. So it was not Henderson's best game, but he still looked good.

As for Robert Meachem, he again looked good.

He ran a reverse well and caught the ball on his lone opportunity.

He is the Saints best blocking receiver, which puts him on the field often. He was the leader of the pack and did a very nice job blocking down the field.

Tight Ends—B+

I thought both guys did a very good job blocking, both in the running game and when asked to stay in to protect Drew Brees.

I thought Shockey showed some good explosion after the catch and is proving to be a very valuable pickup. He looks 100 percent better than he did a year ago.

Of course, he is healthy now.

For what it's what worth, David Thomas looks like he's been on this team for a couple years himself.

Payton has put him in there in critical situations and he has flourished. He's a good blocker (although he let a few guys go yesterday) and a very reliable receiver with good hands.

Brees and Payton love their tight ends and they have two good ones.

Offensive Line—B

In the running game, the Saints O-line was outstanding.

They were getting off the ball and annihilating the Eagles defensive line, moving well in the zone scheme to get to the second level. They are a big reason the Saints ran for over 125 yards Sunday.

In pass protection, they struggled a bit.

Brees got hit more than Payton would like and too often was pressured to leave the immediate pocket.

That being said, Eagles end Trent Cole only hit Brees once. Tackles Jermon Bushrod and Jon Stinchcomb did a good job on the edge.

The improvement needs to come from the interior part of the line.

Defensive Line—B

Defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis played like a beast.

He was all over the field and a key reason Eagles back Brian Westbrook never got going.

He was even used on zone blitzes in coverage and did a very nice job. He also got some pressure on Kevin Kolb.

In short, he was outstanding.

Hargrove and Remi Ayodele were the other two defensive tackles in the rotation.

I think Hargrove was more noticeable.

He moved well to shed blockers and make things happen.

Defensive end Charles Grant looked horrible. He has no burst.

Even in the running game, he is getting beat off the ball. He seems to have lost his strength as well and should be replaced.

However, Will Smith seems to have rebounded.

Although he does not yet have a sack, Smith is playing the run effectively and is at least helping to create some pressure on the quarterback.

Bobby McCray seems to get pressure without trying. He is playing the run effectively.

Maybe he should be starting opposite Smith. That might set a fire inside Grant.

Linebackers—B

As a group they were good, but not as good as a week ago.

Jonathan Vilma wasn't making as many plays as we've become accustomed to and the same could be said about Scott Fujita.

Even Scott Shanle, who finished with 11 tackles and an interception, did not play as well as he could have.

My primary reason for saying this is that I thought the Saints as a group were shoddy in tackling.

They also seemed indecisive in reading their keys against the "Wildcat" and in coverage.

Defensive Backs—B+

I thought the Saints defensive backs all did a really good job in coverage when they were not playing a prevent-type defense.

They were aggressive and making plays on the ball with perfect timing.

They even were able to come up and fill well against the run, but they struggled to tackle effectively.

Cornerback Jabari Greer never seemed to lose track of the guy he was covering and allowed very few catches.

In much the same way, Tracy Porter made some nice plays on the ball.

As always, Randall Gay was very reliable in coverage.

Special Teams—B

I thought the Saints by and large covered much better, especially on punts.

Malcolm Jenkins excelled in this game after struggling a week ago.

On kickoffs, the Saints were bailed out by some penalties, but the coverage was improved.

There was one long return, something that needs to be addressed before facing Buffalo and the Jets—two teams who have good return games.

The Saints were not very good in the return game, punt or kick. Though the offense can score from anywhere, it wouldn't hurt to get better field position.

They blocked much better on extra points and field goals. Kicker John Carney was solid, as usual.

Final Observations

Some of the statistics from this game point to an obliteration performed by the Saints.

There is no doubt they played very well.

But the tape tells you that in order to do the kinds of things this team wants to do, they need to improve their two-minute defense, defensive line play in general and big-play defense.

They also need to continue to finish drives.

That being said, some big strides were made.

The Saints only had three penalties in the game to go along with just one turnover.

They moved the ball methodically or quickly to match whatever the offense called.

They look like a well-oiled offensive machine!

It should be fun to watch this team continue to play out their schedule.

Until we preview the defensive game plan for the Bills, have a good one. And Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Saints Offensive Gameplan Vs. Philadelphia

Will Osgood — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:44:56 -0400

Today I will give you a little preview for when the Saints have the football on Sunday against the Eagles' defense. As I mentioned in yesterday's defensive preview, the Saints and Eagles stylistically are very similar football teams.

They are both very aggressive and high in volume with their schemes. They both attempt to fool the other team by throwing the kitchen sink at them. But they both love to attack and go for the jugular on a regular basis.

Eagles Defensive Personnel

The Eagles are about as talented as any team in the league defensively, especially in the front four and back four. Their linebackers though are very underrated.

On the defensive line, former Saint Darren Howard is still bringing it, and he does a really good job of occupying blockers to free up other players. On the other side, Pro Bowl Defensive End Trent Cole, who can get pressure on a quarterback all by himself, but is certainly aided by the Eagles heavy blitz scheme. Victor Abiamiri rotates in as well to provide good depth and pressure.

Mike Patterson and Broderick Bunkley start at the two defensive tackle positions. They are both a bit tough to figure out because each possesses an amazing amount of talent, but both are inconsistent. One play you see them shed a block and make a tackle in the backfield; the next they are getting pushed five yards off the ball.

Chris Gocong, Akeem Jordan, and Omar Gaither start as linebackers, while Joe Mays also sees a lot of time. They're a group that excels at filling gaps in the running game to make tackles. And they blitz very effectively. However, they are spotty at best in coverage.

In the secondary, Asante Samuel and Sheldon Brown start on opposite corners, with Quentin Mikell and rookie Macho Harris starting at the safety spots. Sean Jones, Quintin Demps, and Ellis Hobbs will all rotate in nickel and dime packages. This group again is aggressive and has good athleticism and football smarts. To consistently beat them, and the rest of this defense it will take an excellent game plan executed perfectly.

What Philly Does Schematically

I've already mentioned this a few times, but I feel it necessary to repeat. The Eagles like to mix things up. They like to give you a multitude of different looks in order to deceive the quarterback, and offense in general.

The Eagles base defense is a 4-3, but the way they align both their lineman and linebackers varies from play to play. Sometimes the linemen will play the most basic form of a 4-3 where the ends play over each tackle; one DT plays over the guard (3-technique), and the other DT plays inside the other guard and the center (1-technique). If the D-Line is playing this standard alignment, you can pretty much bet the house, the linebackers are moving all over the place.

Other times, they'll put three linemen on one side of the offensive line and even throw a linebacker or two on that side, and completely overload that side. They then roll their coverage to the opposite side, in case the offense is smart enough to try to go away from it (which Carolina was not, haha).

In other forms of their 4-3 they will place the linebackers at different depths to make it look as if one is a safety, or again to try to fool the quarterback into thinking his post-snap assignment will be something different than it actually is.

Finally, the Eagles will play with a 3-down linemen look at times as well. They generally keep their three linebackers in the game and bring in an extra DB. They like to alternate their looks from this, and sometimes bring six, other times dropping all eight.

Additionally, the Eagles use the zone blitz, where they bring a backer or defensive back in place of a d-linemen, who then goes out to play the flat.

In the secondary, the Eagles like to mix things up as well. They play some Cover Two, Three, four, even six (in dime packages) where they basically create a triangle on each side to go three on two against a two by two alignment. When the Eagles choose to blitz these guys, they all do it effectively. Of course, they then roll coverage to the side they are blitzing from, keeping the integrity of their defense.

Because they blitz so much, the flats and short middle of the field are open on a majority of snaps. Beating them deep is difficult because their safeties do a pretty good job of keeping everything in front of them. However, it is possible, especially off playaction.

Saints Offensive Gameplan

First & Second Down

The Eagles will blitz at any time, but they get more exotic the more desperate the offense becomes. Because of this it is key to stay out of long yardage situations.

Therefore, look for the Saints to come out running the football on early downs. Look for some two tight end personnel to be used in order to match numbers. Being a power back, Mike Bell is the perfect running back to face this fast aggressive unit. He will wear on them as the game goes on.

The Saints need to run right at them. The inside zone, along with off tackle runs are really good. Also, the Eagles aggressiveness lends to some Reggie Bush cutback runs against the grain of the defense (see the Panthers lone touchdown run last Sunday).

In the passing game, look for a good amount of playaction, where the fullback, or tight end, releases into the flats and picks up five or six yards. I expect to see a lot of two back stuff, but also to see the 21 (Pony) personnel (Bush and Bell/Thomas) to create mismatches on the outside.

If the Saints can guess when they'll get a zone blitz, they can run Bush on a wheel route out of the backfield. They only have to have one receiver on that side, and that receiver should be running a deep vertical route into the middle of the field. A successful play like that should look something like Bush's 86-yard TD in the NFC Championship Game.

The Empty Gun Formation should be successful against the Eagles as it will force a linebacker to play one-on-one against a more talented receiver. Whether that's Shockey or Bush, it is absolutely a mismatch the Saints should win.

Third Down

Two main things I look for in third-and-long situations from the Saints offense: draws and screens to take advantage of the Eagles blitz packages; and a Split Gun formation, where either Evans or Shockey join Brees and Bush in the backfield.

Because they are both effective receivers, they are perfect complements to Bush. Screens and misdirections become very possible. The two back alignment also helps protect Brees and give him time to scan the field.

Also, on third down, Reggie and Shockey should be able to patrol the middle of the field and rack up many catches and possibly first downs.

Another special play I would propose to Sean Payton is this:

Line up Shockey in the Ace position, behind the tackle about a yard, in a receiver stance, and place a receiver about five yards away and another on the ball another three yards out. You run a double combo route. It is a smash but also a cross post.

In other words that outside receiver, probably Lance Moore or Devery Henderson would run a post route; the number two receiver would run a five-yard hitch, and Shockey would cross the post but also go over the top of the hitch.

The safety on that side of the field will probably stay home for the post. If he evacuates, touchdown Mooore. If he stays, the smash route opens up, where Shockey is alone. This is most effective in the red zone, but could be used in the open field as well.

In short-yardage situations, the Saints will likely stick with the power running game described above, and use some playaction. A sprint-out may work since the Eagles have assigned gaps they are blitzing through.

You may also see 52 Wheel, the play that almost got Reggie killed in the playoff game a few years ago. In theory, that play works, especially on third-and-short.

I could also see a toss sweep and reverse being called, but both must be run away from the side of the blitz.

Red Zone

Lately I've heard broadcasters make a big deal about young QBs struggling in the red zone because space becomes so condensed. The Eagles are very good at condensing things in the red zone, in part because they're such a quick and athletic group.

Because of this, the running game has a chance to be successful, since they are not as strong or physical as they are quick. Again, the power running game should be successful. If Payton decides to go to a power personnel group (three tight ends, two backs) playaction becomes a good option—something the Saints have long been good at under Payton.

I don't see the fade, or any of the spread stuff the Saints do being a huge part of the goalline package this week. I think the power game is the way to go.

In fact, just in general, I think we'll see Reggie Bush, Mike Bell, Heath Evans, and Jeremy Shockey as the offensive stars for the week. Yes, the Saints will hit some vertical plays, but that will only follow some successful running and an effective short passing game.

I have a little more confidence in the offensive gameplan today than I did a day ago, when I thought we'd be lucky to score twenty points. Even now, though I don't expect a super high scoring game. But I do think the Saints have a chance.

Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os: Saints Defensive Gameplan Vs. Philadelphia

Will Osgood — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:21:03 -0400

The New Orleans Saints head to Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday afternoon (noon CT on Fox) with a regular season win under their belt. Last season, the Saints were 1-0 headed into Washington and played horribly but still should have won the game.

If the Saints play horribly in this one, especially offensively, they will get crushed. But, I would say the Saints defense has reason to be optimistic.

Part of the reason, of course is the possibility of Donovan McNabb not playing. But the bigger deal is the loss of Guard Shawn Andrews, who the Eagles placed on Injured Reserve yesterday. The Eagles feature almost an entirely new offensive line from last season.

Continuity is a key for any offensive line, and subsequently there is almost no way the Eagles' line could have that this early in their time together. I would expect a lot of creative blitzes and/or stunts, twists, games, etc. from Gregg Williams to confuse the offensive line.

In a sense, it does not matter who the quarterback for the Eagles is. The gameplan remains the same whether it's McNabb, Kevin Kolb, or Jeff Garcia. They are extremely mobile guys who are going to keep plays alive by scrambling.

Of course, McNabb has a bigger arm than the other two, so the vertical game is a little more likely with him, but overall the gameplan won't change a lot.

Finally, the Eagles offense is very similar in structure to the Saints offense. This should be an advantage for the Saints defense since that's pretty much all they've seen since July.

What the Eagles Do Offensively

Personnel

Much like the Saints, the Eagles will rotate players in and out of the game on almost every snap. It would not be too strange to see two tight ends and two running backs on one play, and the next to see no tight ends and four or five wide receivers.

The Eagles will use Brian Westbrook similarly to the way the Saints use Reggie Bush. He'll line up in the backfield, but also in the slot, and out wide. He is a skilled receiver who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. In Week One versus Carolina, Westbrook ran a lot of off tackle-type plays where they were simply trying to use his speed on the outside.

The Saints however should not sleep on rookie RB LeSean McCoy. He looks exactly like Reggie Bush when running the football and is also a very explosive player, who has a similar skillset to Westbrook. Finally, fullback Leonard Weaver, is a tremendous run blocker, but can also catch the ball and can make things happen with the ball in his hands.

At the tight end position, the Eagles will play two very capable guys--Brent Celek and former Buccaneer Alex Smith. Both are very good blockers, and both can stretch the seam with good speed and make yards after the catch on short throws.

Rookie Cornelius Ingram will be a good player down the line, but he needs some time to get used to speed of the game at the NFL level.

At the wide receiver position, the Eagles are greatly improved from the team that used to be T.O. and a bunch of other guys. Much like the Saints, they are a bunch of GREAT number two wide receivers. Because of this, whoever the quarterback is, he's going to spread the ball around to whoever is open.

DeSean Jackson is the biggest threat though, with tremendous speed, and an incredible understanding of how to play the position for such a young player. He is their big play guy, but also their best overall receiver.

Kevin Curtis provides good speed, and is a reliable receiver who always plays out wide. Jason Avant is an experienced possession receiver, who is also very reliable. Rookie Jeremy Maclin is another big play type, who could easily take a reverse to the house. As a receiver though, he is currently not much of a threat.

Formations

Much like the Saints, the Eagles try to formation a defense into its' own death. In their week one game, I do not think the Eagles used the same formation once in the first half.

The Eagles offense has evolved over the years from a prototypical West Coast Offense, which never uses the shotgun, to a more modern version, where the gun is used quite often. About half of the Eagles offensive snaps were taken from the gun. Because most of the Eagles QBs are short, whoever plays, this trend will likely continue.

The Eagles like to spread the defense out, and even when only playing two receivers, they will push their splits out as far as any I've seen. In theory, this widens out the safeties and backers, which gives the offense more of the middle of the field to work.

The Eagles like to use two tight end sets, which generally means either they are going to max protect, by sending out only two or three receivers into the pattern, or run a power running game. Much of the time, they'll play the tight ends on the same side of the formation, which really forces the defense to adjust to that side of the field.

Also, the Eagles showed some empty stuff for the first time that I can remember. This further spreads out the defense, and is good for throwing up the middle.

Finally, DeSean Jackson will get back in the gun and play the "Wildcat" QB position. Leonard Weaver becomes the lone back next to him, who will either be a lead blocker, or a possible runner. Don't be surprised to see them feature Maclin in motion to give the defense further headaches.

Play Concepts

The Eagles passing game is very similar to the Saints. They run a vertical version of the West Coast offense. They throw a lot of passes to the sideline on comeback routes or deep outs.

They like to get their receivers deep over the middle on deep post routes, while the other receiver runs a Dig (deep in) route, which should take the safety out of the picture.

They will throw crossing routes to Jackson and Maclin to get them the ball in space. They love the playaction rollout to get the tight ends the ball in space. They'll throw short to their backs to get them in space. And they love the screen game to Westbrook, but could also use Weaver or McCoy on a screen as well. They are among the best in football at executing the screen game.

In the running game, the Eagles run a lot of zone. This slants the entire line in the direction of the run, but also creates a cutback lane, which Westbrook and McCoy are quick enough to find and burst through it. If the line seals the edge, this allows the back to use his speed to get to the outside.

They'll also use some draws from the gun, especially against an aggressive defense like New Orleans. This could be run by a running back, quarterback, or Jackson. Jackson will also run a sweep from the wildcat to get outside and use his speed.

In all, the Eagles do a lot of different things offensively, especially personnel and formation-wise. They are trying to confuse the defense, and make them play slow. Because of this, I suggest Gregg Williams advise his defense to not worry about the formation or personnel package, but to just play football. Do what you do, regardless.

What the Saints Should Do Defensively

To do what you do, requires a plan, obviously. Williams at this point, has devoured game film of this offense. He knows they run a thousand different formations and play concepts. It is unrealistic to prepare for all of it. Therefore, a simple game plan should follow.

Because the offensive line is pretty much new group, run different twists, stunts, and games early on. Do not let them get comfortable. But mix them in--don't throw everything at them the first series.

Again, I would not blitz as much as Williams likely is tempted to do. By spreading you out, the Eagles are asking for the blitz. Show it, but don't come--play coverage.

Of course, this forces the front four to get some pressure. They are capable, but must do it. There are no excuses any longer. Jonathan Vilma, Shanle, and Scott Fujita looked good playing in coverage a week ago, but also looked wonderful blitzing. Mix it up. Zone blitz a little bit. Play that 3-4 where you bring in Marvin Mitchell. In other words, keep it simple, but confuse the offensive line.

Another reason for not blitzing as much is the Eagles desire to throw screens and run draws. These are blitz beaters and they'll run them on every down.

I would however blitz the "wildcat" through the "B" gaps and use your ends to play contain. In fact, the 3-4 alignment would be perfect for this. That way, Shanle and Fujita can play contain, the two middle backers can blitz, and your line can simply push their gaps.

In the secondary, I am tempted to play a lot of "Two Man". This means you play two deep safeties, to avoid being taken advantage of by that post-dig combo route. It also allows you to keep tabs on receivers who are running all over the place. And it frees people up to blitz.

But I also want to play underneath coverage with my linebackers, in order to avoid being eaten up by the tight end and some of those shorter crossing routes. No matter who the quarterback is, the Eagles will throw the ball. We must be prepared for this by giving them different looks back there, and by getting pressure on the quarterback.

I do not expect either team to score the same amount of points as they did a week ago. Instead, I expect this to be more of a defensive game. It wouldn't surprise me if the winner finishes with 20 or fewer points. This would seem to favor Philadelphia, but that's why they play the game.

Black & Gold Xs & Os: The Day-After Coaches Review of Saints-Lions Game

Will Osgood — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 06:17:56 -0400

On Sunday, Drew Brees and company started their season out strong against a more resilient opponent than expected.

But the stars were clearly Drew Brees and Mike Bell, although the Saints had many stars on the day on both sides of the ball.

Below is a copy of my grades for each play (until about 10 minutes to go in the fourth since my DVR cut off) and each Position, followed by individual players overall grade.

I understand this is not exactly how it is done by coaches, but I felt the need to simplify it in hopes that would be easier to understand for you, the fan.

I also want to clarify that this is only my opinion and certainly may not reflect the opinions of any of the Saints coaches.

Week One Saints vs. Lions Play-By-Play & Overall Grade Sheet

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Special Teams

Play Type Grade

1 KO A

2 PAT B

3 KO A

4 PR B

5 PAT B

6 KO A-

7 DFGA A

8 KOR D+

9 Punt C

10 PR F

11 Punt F

12 DFGA B

13 KOR B-

14 PR B-

15 PAT A

16 KO A

17 PR B

18 PAT B-

19 KO C+

20 PR F

21 FG F

22 KO C+

23 DFGA A-

24 KOR C

25 FG B+

26 KO F

27 DFGA A-

28 KOR A-

29 PAT A

30 KO A-

31 DFGA A-

32 KOR B-

33 PAT A

Offense

Play Type Grades

1 Pass QB: A RB: A TE: B WR: A OL: A

2 Pass QB: A RB: A TE: B WR: B OL: B

3 Run QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: B OL: A

4 Run QB: A RB: B TE: A WR: A OL: A

5 Pass QB: A RB: B TE: A WR: A OL: B Touchdown

6 Draw QB: A RB: B TE: B WR: B OL: A

7 PA QB: A RB: A TE: B WR: A OL: A

8 PA QB: A- RB: A TE: B+ WR: A OL: A- Touchdown

9 Run QB: A- RB: B- TE: B WR: A OL: B-

10 Pass QB: B RB: A TE: N/A WR: B OL: A

11 Pass QB: Penalty OL: F

12 Pass QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: B OL: A

13 Run QB: A RB: A TE: B WR: B OL: B

14 PA QB: A RB: A TE: B+ WR: B OL: B

15 Pass QB: A RB: A TE: B WR: B OL: A

16 Screen QB: A RB: B+ TE: C WR: B OL: A-

17 Run QB: A RB: B+ TE: C WR: B OL: B

18 Run QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: A OL: B+

19 PA Defensive Penalty

20 Run QB: A RB: A TE: B WR: B- OL: A+

21 Run QB: A RB: A TE: B- WR: B- OL: B-

22 Flea-Flicker QB: C- RB: B- TE: C- WR: C OL: C Interception

23 Run QB: A RB: A TE: B+ WR: B OL: A-

24 Pass QB: A RB: B TE: C+ WR: C- OL: A

25 Draw QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: A- OL: A-

26 PA QB: A RB: A- TE: A- WR: A OL: A-

27 Run QB: A RB: B TE: B WR: A- OL: B

28 Run QB: A RB: A TE: B- WR: B OL: B-

29 Pass QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: A OL: B+

30 Pass QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: A OL: A

31 Run QB: A RB: B TE: A WR: A OL: A

32 PA QB: A RB: A+ TE: A WR: N/A OL: A Touchdown

33 Pass QB: A- RB: A- TE: B+ WR: A- OL: A

34 Pass QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: A OL: A

35 Pass QB: A RB: A- TE: A- WR: A OL: A-

36 Pass QB: A+ RB: A- TE: A+ WR: A OL: B- Touchdown

37 PA QB: B- RB: B TE: B+ WR: B- OL: B

38 Pass QB: A- RB: B TE: B+ WR: B OL: B

39 Pass QB: B- RB: B+ TE: B WR: B+ OL: A

40 Draw QB: A RB: B TE: B WR: B OL: B-

41 PA QB: A- RB: A- TE: B WR: B OL: A-

42 Run QB: A RB: B+ TE: B WR: B OL: B-

43 Bubble QB: A RB: B+ TE: B WR: B OL: B

44 Run QB: A RB: A TE: B WR: B OL: B+

45 Pass QB: A RB: A TE: B WR: B+ OL: B+

46 Run QB: A RB: A TE: B- WR: B OL: A

47 Run QB: A RB: A TE: B- WR: C OL: B-

48 Pass Offensive Penalty

49 Pass QB: A RB: N/A TE: A- WR: A- OL: A

50 Pass QB: B+ RB: C TE: B- WR: B+ OL: C+

51 Pass QB: A+ RB: B TE: B- WR: A+ OL: B TD

52 Run QB: A RB: C- TE: C WR: B OL: B- Fmbl Rtn

53 Pass QB: A+ RB: A TE: B WR: C OL: B-

54 Run QB: A RB: B TE: B WR: B OL: B+

55 Run QB: A RB: A TE: A- WR: B+ OL: A

56 Sprint QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: B+ OL: A

57 Run QB: A RB: A TE: A WR: A- OL: A-

58 Run QB: A RB: B+ TE: A- WR: B OL: B-

59 Run QB: A RB: C TE: B+ WR: B OL: B-

60 Run QB: A RB: C- TE: C WR: C- OL: B+

61 Pass QB: A+ RB: N/A TE: A WR: B OL: B

62 Run QB: A RB: B TE: A- WR: B OL: B-

63 PA QB: A RB: A- TE: A- WR: A- OL: B

64 Run QB: A RB: B+ TE: A WR: B+ OL: D Holding

65 Pass QB: B RB: B TE: B- WR: C OL: A-

66 Screen QB: A+ RB: A- TE: B- WR: B OL: B+ TD

Defense

Play Type Grades

1 Run DL: B LB: A DB: B

2 Pass DL: A LB: B DB: A

3 Pass DL: B LB: A DB: A

4 Pass DL: A- LB: B DB: B

5 Run DL: B LB: B DB: A

6 Bubble DL: B LB: B DB: B

7 Run DL: C LB: B DB: B

8 PA/Scr DL: B LB: C DB: B-

9 PA DL: A LB: A DB: A

10 Run DL: B- LB: B DB: A

11 Run DL: B LB: A DB: A

12 Run DL: B+ LB: A DB: A

13 Pass DL: B LB: A DB: A

14 Pass DL: B LB: A DB: A

15 PA DL: A- LB: A DB: A

16 Draw DL: B LB: B- DB: A+

17 Pass DL: A- LB: D DB: B

18 Run DL: C LB: C DB: B Touchdown

19 Run DL: B+ LB: B DB: A

20 PA DL: A LB: A DB: A

21 Run DL: A LB: A+ DB: B+

22 Pass DL: A LB: A DB: B

23 Run DL: B LB: B+ DB: B

24 PA DL: B LB: A DB: A

25 Pass DL: A LB: A DB: A-

26 Pass DL: A LB: A DB: A

27 PA DL: B LB: A DB: A

28 Pass DL: B LB: A- DB: B

29 Pass DL: A LB: B DB: A+

30 Pass Offensive Penalty

31 Pass DL: A LB: A DB: A+ Interception

32 Run DL: B- LB: B DB: A

33 Pass DL: A LB: A DB: A

34 Pass DL: A LB: B DB: C-

35 Run DL: B LB: B DB: B

36 Run DL: A LB: A+ DB: A

37 Pass DL: B LB: B DB: A

38 Run DL: A+ LB: A DB: A

39 Run DL: B LB: C DB: N/A Touchdown

40 Run DL: B+ LB: A DB: A

41 PA DL: B- LB: C- DB: B

42 Run DL: B LB: B DB: B

43 Offensive Penalty

44 Pass DL: B+ LB: B DB: A-

45 Pass DL: B LB: B DB: B- Incomplete/ FGA

46 PA DL: B- LB: C DB: C

47 Pass DL: B LB: B DB: B

48 Pass DL: B LB: B+ DB: A

49 Pass DL: B LB: A DB: A

Position-By-Position Breakdown

Offense

QB: Drew Brees A+

RB: Mike Bell B+

Heath Evans B+

Reggie Bush C+

TE: Jeremy Shockey A-

David Thomas B

WR: Marques Colston B

Devery Henderson B+

Robert Meachem A-

Lance Moore B

OL: Jahri Evans A-

Jon Stinchcomb B+

Jonathan Goodwin B-

Jermon Bushrod B-

Carl Nicks C

Zach Strief (LT/TE) B+

Defense

DL: Will Smith B

Charles Grant C

Bobby McCray B

Jeff Charleston B

Sedrick Ellis B

Kendrick Clancy B

Anthony Hargrove B

LB: Jonathan Vilma A

Scott Shanle B+

Scott Fujita B

Marvin Mitchell B

CB: Tracy Porter B

Jabari Greer A-

Randall Gay B+

Malcolm Jenkins C-

S: Darren Sharper A-

Roman Harper A-

Pierson Prioleau B

Observations Coming From the Film

- The Saints played a lot of 3-4 defense in the first half, bringing in Marvin Mitchell to play a second middle linebacker spot.

- They used this to rush four but disguise which four rushers were coming.

- Williams found different ways to put eight men in the box on most occasions. Roman Harper is an absolute animal who has a chance to do big things this year. He made several tackles within five yards of the line of scrimmage after defensive linemen and linebackers would eat up blockers.

- Something is wrong with Charles Grant. He looked slow and out of shape on Sunday. I think Bobby McCray is a better player, especially for Gregg Williams's system. On the other side, Will Smith looked quick and agile and can be the player the Saints expect him to be.

- Jonathan Vilma may have an even better year than he did last year. The guy flew all over the field on Sunday. Williams' system seems to be a perfect fit for Vilma and his skill set.

- Special Teams was bad Sunday; especially early in the game. But as it went on, those problems got corrected. It was mostly angles being taken by blockers/tacklers. Emphasis must remain on this next week against a good returner in DeSean Jackson.

- Zach Strief played roughly 10 snaps as a second tight end. He kept his lineman number so he was not an eligible receiver, but was a nice addition to the blocking scheme. That is a new wrinkle I do not remember seeing from the Saints in any of the past three years.

- Jeremy Shockey sat out the last quarter and a half, presumably as a healthy scratch. He was very effective as a blocker, and a valuable weapon in the passing game for Drew Brees.

- Mike Bell had a great game mainly because the line consistently got off the ball quickly and were aggressive. This made Bell's job easy.

-Reggie Bush's struggles in the run game were due in large part to a hesitation to hit the hole. He wanted to bounce everything, instead of carrying through the designed hole. The line did a good job for him as they did for Bell.

- LG Carl Nicks looked lazy and slow, and often was caught out of position and/or lunging for a defender to block instead of simply moving his feet and using the long arms he possesses to out-muscle a player.

- This should not come as a huge surprise, but Brees showed why he is so good Sunday, not just because of his numbers, but by the way he moved around in the pocket, found throwing lanes, and showed patience in going through his progressions and choosing the appropriate receiver.

- Robert Meachem finally appears to be reaching his potential. Meachem caught one of Brees' long touchdown passes, but was used in a regular rotation and not just as a special package guy. He is the Saints best blocker at the receiver spot and is learning how to get open and not just using his speed to gain separation.

- The same thing could be said for Devery Henderson, although he's not as good a blocker.

- Heath Evans is a versatile fullback, who was nearly flawless Sunday. He missed a couple reads as far as who to block in the running game, but gives the Saints yet another weapon.

- In order to improve, the Saints must keep their focus on finishing. They did a really good job of that Sunday while avoiding penalties. Turnovers need to be eliminated as well to make this the team it is capable of becoming.

All in all, Sunday was an exciting game, and should work out to be a really good tuneup for the Saints as they will travel to Philadelphia next week to play a much more complete football team in the Eagles, who whooped the Panthers on the road.

Geaux Saints!

Black & Gold Xs & Os | Saints Offensive Gameplan Vs. Detroit

Will Osgood — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:20:02 -0400

Update: The West Hills Wolfpack Freshman Football team (I'm the Wide Receivers Coach) lost 28-0 yesterday, although they were only down 7-0 at the Half, and had about a 40 yard pass play near the end of the half, but could not score in four tries from the two-yard line. The Wolfpack are now 0-2, but are optimistic that they are improving as a team, even if the score may not say so.

As for the matchup the Saints have this weekend with the Lions, I would be remiss if I painted a picture of a grueling defense that strikes deep fear into Pete Carmichael and Sean Payton.

Truth be told, the Saints should light up the scoreboard early and often on Sunday. They should be able to run and throw the ball at will. It should be a beatdown similar to last year's Week 16 matchup.

Lions Defensive Personnel & Overall Game Plan

The Lions base defense is a 4-3 with a lot of zone coverage and hard rushing defensive ends. It is similar to what you saw from Tennessee last night versus the Steelers-- they try to get pressure from their front four, almost exclusively.

The difference between the two defenses is that Tennessee has the talent to make such a scheme work exceptionally well. Detroit is still lacking in the talent department.

Cliff Avril, defensive end, is a second-year player who is quick and has great athleticism, but lacks the strength to hold up in the run game. On the other side Detroit starts Dewayne White, a veteran who played some of the very good Tampa Bay defenses. This kind of gives it away as to what their overall system is.

As I already mentioned, they want to get pressure from their front four by speed rushing on the outside, and they sacrifice some ability to hold up in the middle or against the run, although White is solid against the run.

In the middle are Grady Jackson, a big huge veteran who is getting up there in years, and Sammie Hill, another second-year player. Together, they're a formidable duo, but neither has the burst to consistently pressure the quarterback. And over the course of a game, neither can hold up against an attacking offensive line.

The linebackers are great in name, with Julian Peterson, Larry Foote, and Ernie Sims. The problem is that the defensive system doesn't really fit Peterson's strength--to get after the QB. He is forced to play coverage and doesn't do that so well. In Nickel packages, though, he sometimes puts his hand on the ground and rushes, where he's definitely more effective.

None of these guys are huge, or powerful enough to consistently play the run over the course of the game, and they all struggle in coverage.

Finally, the secondary, which is very talented but lacks the playmaking ability that can potentially cover up another defensive deficiencies.

Anthony Henry and Phillip Buchanon man the corner spots. Interestingly enough, both have actually a great deal of personal success against Mr. Brees, especially in opening-day games. Both have picked Brees off, and just last year Buchanon returned one for six points.

The safeties are Marquand Manuel, who was released by the Bengals not too long ago, and Louis Delmas, a rookie who I graded out as a fourth rounder last draft season.

Both lack the necessary instincts to make plays over the middle consistently. Both will come up and play the run a little bit, but can be had on playaction as well.

The Lions will play a lot of Cover Two and Cover Three with an effort to keep the ball in front of them. This means an offense can throw underneath and eat them up by methodically moving the ball.

What the Saints Will Likely Do On Offense

First & Second Down

Look for Sean Payton to be very aggressive on first down, with reverses, playaction, and deep routes. The Lions play first down pretty conservatively, meaning being aggressive against that is in the Saints favor.

In the running game, Reggie Bush could be used effectively outside zone (stretch) running plays, where the line seals off the edge, allowing Bush to use his speed and go one-on-one with a safety. This play will be most effective out of a two-back set, because that will allow for the Lions to play a more aggressive set with their linebackers up on the line, making them more reachable to block.

Two backs brings the linebackers up, which also makes playaction more effective. Expect some seam routes to be caught by Jeremy Shockey, but also for receivers to flood the flats off playaction with receivers clearing out, in order to get a Bush, Shockey, or Thomas/Bell out in space. For that matter, Heath Evans also could see the ball out there some this week as well.

Robert Meachem or Devery Henderson are pretty much locks to get a reverse in this game, and maybe they both will since the ends are not very disciplined or quick enough to react and make a play.

I would also look for Lance Moore, Devery Henderson, and Robert Meachem to be constant deep threats running down the sidelines when Brees sees the Lions in a Cover Two defense. He will try to hit that "9 route" in between the corner who is on the receiver's hip, and the safety trying to come over.

One-back sets will allow for cutback runs against this defense, especially with motion away from the play, as that will cause the defense's strength to change. The cutback is similar to the stretch in that you are trying to seal off an edge, in this case up the middle. The running back starts off going one direction for a step or two, and then cuts back through a gaping hole up the middle. Thomas or Bell are the likely ball-carriers on this play.

Finally, the Counter Trey and Trap, where lineman on the opposite side of the run pull to cut off a rushing end or backer, will be effective. The running back must follow the lineman pulling until he sees daylight, and then explode through that hole. Any back would be effective on this kind of run.

Third Down

The Lions do not make radical changes on third down, and they stay rather conservative, mostly only rushing four, with an occasional fifth. Against pocket passers, they try to blow up the "A Gap" by bringing everyone in it, which is where a blitzer could come outside. However, they haven't shown that too much.

As a result, protection can be pretty standard, and five receivers can get out into the pattern. Marques Colston will be effective in the slot running Seam Routes, Dig Routes, and Crossing Routes against the occasional man-to-man look.

Meachem and Henderson can stretch the defense deep, but are also good guys to have run across the middle on third down to catch and run with the ball. The screen game to the running backs can be effective in a 3 x 1 set away from the three-receiver side.

In short-yardage situations the Lions bring everybody up, again making playaction a nice option. When running the football, the Lions can be sealed off, which can be done effectively pulling a tackle or guard to the side of the run and having a tight end block down, with the play going between the tight end and the tackle. Having a fullback lead up the hole can also be effective on inside runs up the middle.

Red Zone

In the Red Zone, the Lions like to crowd the line of scrimmage. They also play man-to-man, which is great news for Marques Colston, as that boundary fade route that he and Brees connect on so well will be open. The slant route that the Saints generally love down there, will likely not be open.

The running game really is the same as in short-yardage situations. But because the Lions play man in the red zone, crossing routes, which lead to rubs, are going to be open.

Playaction also will be effective, especially with a tight end or running back getting out to the flat where Brees can hit him on the run and let him do the rest.

Two-Minute Offense

Expect the Saints to use their base two-minute offense, while being patient, and allowing the big play to open up. The Saints run one of the best two-minute offenses, so against a poor defense I am not too worried about its scheme. It will be fine.

Final Analysis

I mentioned Jeremy Shockey's name quite a bit in this preview. That's because he is a perfect fit for this defense that the Lions play. In truth, so is Marques Colston, Devery Henderson, and Robert Meachem. The running game should go well over 100 yards, and the team should score at least four touchdowns.

This should be a nice tuneup for the Eagles a week from now. Hopefully, the whole team can avoid injuries and be at full strength as Philadelphia is always a tough win, especially early in the year.

Black & Gold Xs and Os: New Orleans' Week One Defensive Game Plan Vs. Detroit

Will Osgood — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 04:30:00 -0400

On Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009, Matthew Stafford will make his NFL debut in the Louisiana Superdome versus the New Orleans Saints.

If you've read anything I've written over the past year related to the draft or college football, you know I've been very harsh toward this young man. Well, I wish I could say I've changed my stance, but frankly, after watching some tape from preseason games, I have to say I think the Lions are making a huge mistake in throwing Stafford out there in Game One.

The kid is a very slow decision-maker. He processes information very slowly. He is not accurate. He has virtually no touch. He cannot throw on the run effectively. Worst of all, he is not a very good leader.

This article is not intended to be another Stafford-basher. I brought this up to make a point though. That point is that if the Saints give up more than two offensive touchdowns to the Lions on Sunday, it's a flat-out disgrace.

But this article is not meant to be an editorial; it's an informative piece on what to expect when Detroit has the ball on Sunday. So without further ado, here goes.

What Detroit Does Offensively

Formations

Detroit, under Scott Linehan, the former Rams head coach, is likely going to come out with a fairly simple offensive game plan for the young rookie. This will no doubt include formations and personnel.

The Lions like to use a lot of Base (21) personnel—two backs, one tight end, and two receivers. From this personnel grouping, they will run a lot of I-Formation and offset-I stuff. This keeps the tight end in line and the fullback either straight behind the QB or to one side behind the guard.

Occasionally, they'll put that fullback into some kind of motion to give him a head start into his block or into a pass route.

Detroit also likes to use 11 personnel—three receivers, one tight end, and one running back. Most often they will pass out of this formation. They will also use some two-tight end sets, which they'll use for the running game but also to pass out of.

Detroit has shown little to no use of four-or-five wide receiver sets throughout the preseason and likely will not due to a lack of depth at the receiver position.

Motions

The Lions' use of motion is actually very simple, and they've shown a pattern, at least on film, throughout the preseason. That pattern is that a receiver will come in short motion—start out wide and slowly move inside no further than the end of the offensive line.

When the player does this, he is going to run some kind of crossing route. I saw nothing else on film. Can it really be that simple?

The fullback will occasionally move around, and the tight end may as well, to give themselves better angles on their blocks.

Play Concepts

Detroit is going to run the football a lot since they are starting a quarterback who should be starting his true senior year of college. They will use a lot of their base personnel to do this, for two reasons.

The first is that this gives them seven good blockers to go against either a seven- or eight-man front. The other reason is that this is simply their best personnel grouping.

They will run a lot of zone plays, where they try to get the defense slanting one way and have their quick running backs—Kevin Smith and rookie Aaron Brown—cut back against the flow of the play.

They will also try to run some trap plays where they pull a guard and try to hit the play in the "B" gap. On this they double-team the DT, Sedrick Ellis, and try to trap the end (Will Smith or Charles Grant, or whomever).

These are their two favorite running plays. They'll try to disguise this by doing different things personnel and formation-wise.

The other way they like to get the ball in the hands of their backs is via the short pass.

The main routes they run are screens, which they will probably run a lot of, since they'll be expecting a lot of pressure from a Gregg Williams defense. They also like to throw to their backs on checkdown routes and swing routes to get Smith or Brown out in space (similar to the Saints with Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas).

Play action will also be a choice meat for Linehan on Sunday. He will likely try to get the running game going in order to get that eight-man front and then throw over the top of that with his strong-armed QB.

Finally, Calvin Johnson is the only real weapon to be worried about in the intermediate or deep passing game. They will try to motion him to get a running start on those crossing routes. They will throw the ball to him on quick screens to let him make a play. They'll also throw deep to him up the sideline.

Aside from that, Bryant Johnson will catch a few balls in the intermediate passing game, and Brandon Pettigrew may be a nice checkdown option when Stafford is pressured, but the Lions' passing game is not going to be very complicated or difficult to stop.

What the Saints Need to Do to Stop Them

Stack the Box

I think it's a really simple defensive game plan for Gregg Williams and the Saints defense this week. You're facing a rookie quarterback who should not be starting. He makes decisions slowly. The running game is decent. Make the rookie QB beat you.

I would have eight men in the box to start the game in order to stop the run. That eighth guy is Roman Harper, who excels near the line of scrimmage and at blitzing the QB.

With the eight-man box, the run blitz is no longer necessary. Instead, simply play straight up, fill your lanes, fly to the football, and try to cause turnovers.

I would simply play cover three, meaning the corners drop to about 10 yards and keep the receivers' patterns in front of them. The safety—Darren Sharper—does the same thing in the middle of the field. Allow Harper to play the tight end one-on-one. Use the outside backers to play the curl-flat areas (hashes).

I would simply rush with four guys, but every now and then, change who those four guys are by zone blitzing. Make it Harper, or a corner every now and then. Send Jonathan Vilma or Scott Shanle.

Give the Rookie Different Looks

I started to allude to this at the end of the last section but want to expand on this thought. The Saints do not need to blitz like crazy in this game since the Lions' O-line isn't very good. A four-man rush should work enough of the time to get some significant pressure.

However, give Stafford different looks. Align in a cover four and then send Harper or a corner. Set up that eight-man box and then play cover four. Blitz from a base defense. Heck, rush only three men and drop eight. He's a slow decision-maker. Utilize that to your advantage by giving him a different look every snap.

Keep the Ball in Front of You

The only way the Lions have a chance to score in this game are if Calvin Johnson beats the defensive secondary deep or if the Saints don't play assignment football in the run game.

I suggest the Saints play their corners in off coverage, or zone, most of the time. Stafford is going to want to force the football down the field. He'll get greedy and throw a few picks. Heck, even some cover two would work, because it emphasizes keeping the ball in front.

This will also be effective with those running backs catching the ball out of the backfield.

A heavy pass rush, of course, also helps stop the deep passing game, as it generally forces poor throws.

Special Situations

The Lions are going to try to get Stafford in good situations on third down by running the ball and throwing short passes on first and second down.

Therefore, in short-yardage situations, it is important that the Saints are prepared for the play action game, one area where Stafford is generally pretty good. This is where he will most often look to hit his running backs and tight ends, but he could also try to hit a big one with CJ.

Because of this, I would play eight men in the box but actually play coverage. This way they can quickly react to the run and come up to stuff it, but are ready to get to their proper zones and take away the short pass.

They should take away the flats with outside linebackers and play robber coverage with Harper and/or Vilma in the intermediate area and Sharper deep. This way Sharper can help to the outside with Johnson.

In long-yardage situations, Detroit will most likely throw screens and run draws. Therefore, I would not be too aggressive in these situations, but play zone and come up ready to tackle them short of the sticks.

In the red zone, Johnson is the guy. They'll try to hit him on fades, slants, and back of the end zone crossing routes, or they'll give the ball to Kevin Smith.

Therefore, I would put my most physical corner on Johnson and put Sharper to his side and bracket him (that corner is probably Randall Gay; although he gives up some size, he has a great knack for slowing down bigger receivers).

Once again, I'd crowd the line of scrimmage with eight guys but play heavy "B" gaps, instead of the somewhat standard "pinch the 'A' gap" defense that many teams play in the red zone. If they beat you up the middle, that's okay—it means they had to trick you to be successful.

Finally, in two-minute situations, I would play cover two and make Stafford put together a drive. I wouldn't blitz, which kills me to say. Maybe slant your D-line, but that would be about it. Keep the ball in front of you and roll coverage towards CJ.

Like I said, it's a pretty simple game plan this week. Don't let Kevin Smith or Calvin Johnson beat you. If you're going to go down, make it be because of the rookie QB.

Black and Gold X's And O's: Preseason Review Plus Roster Decisions

Will Osgood — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 03:19:32 -0400

Rod Harper officially made the New Orleans Saints' 53-man roster on Saturday. After watching the 2009 preseason, this became nothing more than a formality.

Harper was the Saints' most explosive playmaker in the preseason. He scored on two punt returns and was constantly running free in the defensive secondary, catching passes mostly from Mark Brunell.

No. 13 joins the group of teens (my name for the receivers since they all have numbers in the teens). Harper may even win the punt return job or at least be the backup to Reggie Bush.

It is unlikely, however, that Harper will find a lot of time on the field when the Saints possess the football. There are four other proven receivers ahead of him, not to mention that Sean Payton likes to line Bush and Jeremy Shockey out wide in receiver-type positions quite often.

As interesting as Harper's story is (if you haven't heard it, he played in the Arena Football Two League a season ago), it's not the only one of this preseason that will have an impact on the upcoming regular season.

The Saints' best tight end last season was Billy Miller. Unfortunately, his season ended before it really ever began on Thursday night. As a result, the Saints made a nice trade with the New England Patriots for David Thomas.

Thomas will fill in as the second tight end most likely, and similar to Miller, will be the utility tight end—in other words, responsible both for blocking and catching (we all know Shockey is only in New Orleans to catch passes and Buck Ortega is not expected to see a football thrown his way).

Defensively, I'm still surprised the Saints elected to rid themselves of Jason David, while keeping Leigh Torrence. David looked okay in the preseason action he saw, but obviously I must be a little biased on that front.

In related news, Malcolm Jenkins appears destined for the fourth cornerback spot to start the season, which in my opinion is exactly where he should be. I love the kid and think he'll be a great player down the road, but he needs more experience and actually is a really nice fit in dime situations anyway.

If I were Sean Payton (or actually Gregg Williams), I would switch Randall Gay into the starting lineup for Jabari Greer. Greer, to me, is the perfect nickel back, while Gay provides versatility to play over the slot, but has the overall ability to play effectively outside. That being said, that isn't something I'm going to lose a lot of sleep over. Given schemes and situations, Gay will be in the game a lot.

As for the defensive line, I found it interesting that the Saints currently only have three defensive ends available for the first four games while Will Smith and Charles Grant serve their suspensions.

This leads me to believe they are either scanning the waiver wire or are planning on playing a lot of three-man fronts while using two of their defensive tackles and rotating their ends (or something like that). I suppose we will find out over the course of the next week or so.

Finally, the linebacker position, which looks remarkably similar to a season ago. Are the Saints ever going to change this position? Every year, it's a huge topic of conversation amongst the media and fans, and every year they line up the same group. And I love it!

Shanle, Vilma, and Fujita are a very solid group. When you add in the depth they have with Jo-Lonn Dunbar, Marvin Mitchell, Troy Evans, and Jonathan Casillas, you are looking at a group that may not scare the opponent based on pedigree, but on the field will get after them and make moving the football tough.

A 3-1 preseason is good, but obviously these games are over and done with and the slate is wiped clean. The real season starts on Sunday against Detroit. Anything can happen.

I expect a win, but I'm writing that in on my schedule in pencil, not marker.

There is still work to be done, and the roster still in flux. Now I understand why a general manager is so important.

Black and Gold X's and O's | Identifying Concepts: The Overload Blitz

Will Osgood — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:20:15 -0400

This is the sixth of eight summer articles intended to go into greater depth on some of the schematics the Saints will use this upcoming season, in hopes of retaking control of the NFC South.

Today's edition deals with one of the elements that a Gregg Williams' defense is best known for—the overload blitz.

I will first explain some of the important things to note about the way defenses are called and run, in order to make it easier to understand what follows.

First, is that the defense always lines up based on the personnel and formation of the offense.

Second, many defenses play strongside and weakside, meaning the linebackers align to one side or the other based upon where the tight end, or other designated player, is lined up.

Third, the way a blitz is run changes based on personnel, formation, motion, and/or a few other possible factors.

The Overload Blitz

Several defenses run an overload blitz, but there are many different variations to it. Most teams will run multiple variations.

As I explained above, there is a strongside and weakside blitz that teams will run.

In simple terms, a strongside blitz means they are blitzing to the side where the tight end is lined up. A weakside blitz would take place away from the tight end.

Common sense would tell us to always run to the weakside, since there are fewer blockers to that side. However, the strong side can be effective, as you will see, if it is executed correctly.

Most often, defenses will play Cover One (One safety in deep coverage with a safety playing man-to-man on a receiver or back). When teams go to spread formations, though, the defense has to switch to cover Zero, meaning there is no deep safety, and the secondary is all playing man-to-man.

Weakside Overload Blitz

When the offensive team has two backs in the backfield, this is a relatively safe blitz package. It does involve bringing six men, although you could zone one of your down linemen on the strong side.

The main idea is that the weakside end (usually Will Smith or Charles Grant) is going to fake inside off the ball and then try to speed rush around the tackle. The weakside linebacker (Shanle) is going to delay about a quarter of a second to allow the end to get upfield, start to the outside, then dip immediately inside of the end.

Meanwhile the middle linebacker (Vilma) is going to come through the gap intended to be occupied by the weakside end. Without a diagram it can be confusing, but a way to think about it is to imagine three defensive players fitting into a space where there are only two offensive linemen.

The likely outcome is that the offensive guard picks Vilma up, but the tackle cannot pick up two different defensive players, as long as their timing and their routes are crisp.

He must choose one, which generally allows the other to come free.

Strongside Overload Blitz

While there are multiple variations of both these blitzes, these are the most common. When blitzing to the side of the tight end, the strategy is to bring six again, but in a different path than before.

The strongside defensive end (Smith or Grant) is going to immediately speed rush. Without delaying, the Sam Linebacker (Fujita) is going to head straight to where the tight end was lined up.

The strongside defensive tackle (Sedrick Ellis) is going to occupy the guard, while the middle linebacker (Vilma) is going to head for Ellis' butt and veer off toward the center.

In this case, you are essentially going four-on-four. What still allows this to be an effective blitz is the fact that you have Ellis and Fujita hitting the same gap, hoping to cause an inside shift in that gap. If that happens, the defensive end or Vilma should have enough speed to get around their blocker.

And the worst case scenario is that the entire line shifts to the strongside to help out against the speed of Ellis and the end. If this happens, the backside end should be able to take advantage of a one-on-one advantage using his best pass rush move.

Of course, the QB could get rid of the ball quick enough to avoid the rush, or the offense could run the football away from the blitz where there are few defenders.

But if called correctly, and executed well, this is a wonderful blitz to run, with the speed and talent of the Saints front seven.

Until next time, Geaux Saints!

Black and Gold X's and O's | Identifying Concepts: Press Coverage

Will Osgood — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:49:56 -0400

This is the fifth of eight summer articles intended to go into greater depth on some of the schematics the Saints will use this upcoming season, in hopes of retaking control of the NFC South.

Today's edition deals with the defensive backfield, and one of Gregg Williams' favorite type of coverage—press coverage.

Why would a corner get right on a receiver at the line of scrimmage, especially if that receiver is bigger and quicker or faster?

The truth is that often times if the receiver is bigger and quicker, getting into that guy early—press coverage—may be the corner's only chance at all.

Of course, there is the possibility that the receiver will simply use a swim or a rip move to outmuscle the corner. Or he could use a double move—a la Steve Smith—and blow by the corner with quickness.

But the reality is that most receivers, even at the NFL level, are not good at getting off press coverage. Therefore, defensive coaches are going to use one of the few effective schemes they have left.

Individual Elements of Press Coverage

One of the main keys to press coverage for the corner is to get his hands on the receiver immediately, and to be as physical as possible. Remember in the NFL, you are only allowed to bump the receiver for the first five yards after the line of scrimmage.

This certainly helps the receivers, but it gives the defender a small ray of hope. If he can bump him off his intended path, even to the -nth degree, he has a much better chance of holding that receiver catchless on that play.

Another key though, is to focus on moving the feet. It is common to see a corner get overextended in trying to bump the receiver, and lose his leverage. This is one thing I noticed with Malcolm Jenkins when he was in press coverage. He was slow in getting his hands on a receiver, and as a result would reach for the receiver.

He got away with it in college against less talented receivers. But if he wants to start and have a successful career as a pro, he better get quicker in bumping the receiver.

Another key is the hips. A corner has NO chance to be successful if he cannot turn those things with the best of them. This is because eventually he is going to have to turn and run with the receiver.

Quickly let's assume the corner is strong and/or quick enough to stay with the receiver off the line. What comes next?

Well, the corner needs to stay in front of the receiver as best as possible. This is where the feet and hips come into play. But the hands also help redirect the receiver to wherever the corner wants him to go. Ideally, the corner would simply knock the receiver to the ground within those first five yards.

If he is unable to do that, he must get his hands off but stay on the receiver's hip—generally the outside, to move him inside where the big boys lay waiting.

It is interesting though, because there is a form of press coverage, like this where the corner gets up on the receiver, redirects him, and intentionally lets him get by him. This is called bump-and-run. The key to this, as I mentioned, is to stay hip-to-hip with the receiver.

The only difference is the corner plays back hip, assuming the receiver is getting vertical.

Either form of press coverage can be extremely effective for a number of reasons.

It throws off the timing of the receiver's route. And as a result, generally changes the path of his route.

Also, by playing close to the receiver, it forces the quarterback to make extremely accurate throws. He often must thread the ball to the outside shoulder near the sideline, which may be the toughest throw a QB has to make.

Team Concepts of Press Coverage

While Press Coverage is generally a man-to-man coverage, that doesn't mean the other six-or so- backfield members are unrelated. Most of the time, press coverage will be accompanied by either a Two-Deep Shell (Cover Two) or Bracket Coverage—where the safety plays the inside of the man, while the corner's main responsibility is the outside.

Either way, the point is that the safety assumes responsibility for the receiver if he gets past the corner.

In the Two-Deep Shell (Cover Two), the corner will generally stay to the outside and simply bump the receiver inside, while maintaining the flat-area coverage. At that point, he essentially becomes the safety's man, although the corner is still minding that area and working to the ball if it's thrown in that direction.

In the bump-and-run, the safety makes sure to stay on top of the route at all times. He should never be beat deep on bump-and-run, as it is his only responsibility to stay deep. The corner has the underthrown ball, or the shorter pass coming underneath.

Why This Will Be Effective for the Saints

Most of the receivers the Saints face are either strong or fast, but not both. Steve Smith is likely the only exception. Playing press on these guys allows the defender the option to rely on his greatest area of strength, and not the receiver's.

Additionally, Darren Sharper will be an effective deep safety to help out when the corner does get beat.

And finally, the Saints blitzing style will help, as it will give the QB and his receiver less time, and make the QB try to fit balls into tight spots while being pressured.

Doing that is nearly impossible, even for the best QBs.

For these reasons, I love fact the Saints will play an aggressive form of press man-to-man this season.

Until next time, Geaux Saints!

Black and Gold X's and O's| Identifying Concepts: The Play-Action Pass

Will Osgood — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:13:27 -0400

For the next eight weeks, I will write one column a week regarding different concepts the Saints will use either on offense or in defensive packages in 2009.

Today's version is about the play-action passing game, something the Saints have used very successfully in the past few years and no doubt will do so again this season.

Most football fans have heard that play action passing is built off a good ground attack, and to some extent that is true; however, if that were an absolute stipulation, New Orleans would not be a good play action team, yet they are.

Here are some of the reasons.

1. Play-Calling: Sean Payton knows the appropriate time to use play action, and the appropriate routes to call based on formation and likely coverage.

2. Protection: While the Saints' offensive line may not be the best run-blocking line in the history of football, they do an outstanding job in pass protection. They use the same concepts in the play action game, and as a result have almost as much success.

3. Play Fakes: Drew Brees is among the best in the game at ball-handling. His play fakes with the running backs, as well as pump faking to get a receiver clearance from a defender are huge in making him an elite quarterback. And they help greatly in getting his receivers open.

Schematic Elements in the Play-Action Passing Game

Formations

Of course, play action is generally more effective when a team is using a running formation (generally thought be two backs or tight ends, or both). However, teams have tendencies to do certain things out of certain formations.

For New Orleans, a three-receiver set is a wonderful play action package since they will run the ball quite a bit from this personnel grouping. However, a two-back set wouldn't produce quite the same results because New Orleans often gets into these sets to throw the ball.

Overall, the main idea is to keep away from using the same formations or packages to run the same plays. Also, you want to use formations and packages that will give you a personnel advantage, such as a linebacker on a tight end, or wide receiver on a safety.

Protections

Most teams at any level of football want to focus their play action pass protection around what they already do in either the running game or the passing game. New Orleans has a tendency to use their pass protection in play action.

This makes sense since they are so effective in pass protection.

Generally, they will also try to anticipate blitzes or overloads, and slide protection to that given side. The back will generally check up the middle, or to the side of the overload.

The idea is that Brees can see him coming from the weak side, and that becomes his guy in the protection scheme. This means if the weak-side rusher comes free, Brees must avoid him or deliver the ball to avoid being brought down.

Routes

Generally, teams like to go deep on play action, and New Orleans is no different. In fact, the Saints called more vertical routes last season than any other team in the NFL (and were also the most effective vertical team).

Vertical doesn't always mean the ball is thrown 50 yards down the field, however.

For the Saints it often means having a receiver run underneath the safety on a crossing route, a couple guys running intermediate routes from the outside, and then a speed guy such as Devery Henderson or Robert Meachem run vertical down the seam on a post, seam, or corner.

With all this being said, the Saints are more than able to complete some five yard outs, slants, and hitches off of play action, mainly in short-yardage situations.

They also love to run the quick ball fake flat route to the fullback or tight end on short-yardage situations.

Finally, the bootleg, or naked bootleg (quarterback has nobody blocking in front of him) are effective aspects of the Saints play action package.

In these, the idea is to get Drew Brees on the move, generally one-on-one with a DE where he can use his mobile accuracy to gun the ball to a receiver down the field using half the field. If the defender makes a quick run at Brees, he is able to simply loft the ball over his head to either a fullback or tight end, who then runs for a few yards.

All in all, the play action passing game is one of the most effective elements of the Saints weekly game plan. Expect that to remain a constant in 2009.

Geaux Saints!

Black and Gold X's and O's | Identifying Concepts: The Crossing Route

Will Osgood — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:19:06 -0400

For the next eight weeks, I will write one column a week regarding different concepts the Saints will use either on offense or in defensive packages in 2009.

Today's version deals with some of the intricacies of the Crossing Route, which has become a staple of pretty much every NFL offense, although few teams do it as well as the Saints.

A key to understanding the crossing route is to understand the purpose of the route. The main idea is to create a matchup problem either with a receiver on a linebacker, or a Tight End on a player that cannot cover him.

Generally, it is advisable to throw this pass after the receiver has cleared the extended pocket, for two reasons.

First, the quarterback has less of a chance of having such a pass deflected by a big defensive tackle.

Second, this allows the receiver to clear the coverage but still gives him room to run with the ball after he makes the catch.

Most crossing routes are designed to beat zone coverage, but some are also built to beat man-to-man.

These zone-busters generally come in three varieties.

First, you have the shallow cross, followed by the drag, and finally the deep cross.

You can think of these as short, intermediate, and deep-er.

The shallow route is generally run no deeper than three yards. It is intended to be run in front of the linebacker level. It is assumed the receiver can beat a linebacker going side-to-side.

Complimentary routes include hitches, clear outs, and occasionally even slant routes. But often times when a shallow cross is called, it's labeled as hot.

That's why quarterbacks will often throw this pass very quickly and generally fail to complete it.

The intermediate drag is generally run at five-to-six yards, but can be run deeper based on the depth of the linebackers and safeties on expected coverages.

Again, it is ideal to stay in front of the linebacker.

This time there will generally be deeper routes being run down the middle of the field, such as a Dig (Deep In), Post, or Seam. This will often take the attention of the linebackers to open up space for the receiver running the drag.

Finally, the Deep Cross is run deeper at ten-plus yards. This is intended to be run behind the linebacker level and in front of the safety level.

This route has beaten the Saints' defense many times over the past three years, but has also been a very effective play for the Saints' offense.

Lance Moore is probably the best at running this pattern. He shows patience running his routes so as to not give away the route, but he gets good burst in order to accelerate past the linebacker level.

He makes sure to stay in front of the safeties as well. Brees knows that as soon as he clears that final linebacker, he can make the throw.

Brees anticipates this very well, which allows him to make timing throws with accuracy.

There are also crossing routes designed to "rub" defensive players. Defensive players and coaches call this a "pick", but it really is a rub.

A "rub" is performed by two receivers. One goes in front of the defensive player, while the other goes about a yard deeper.

Often times the two defensive players, when playing man coverage, will run into each other, or at least bump each other enough to throw one off his path.

Once this happens, a receiver has plenty of daylight to run with the ball after the catch since the entire defense is playing man-to-man. The quarterback must read the defenders and determine which one will be most affected by the rub.

He then quickly must throw to the receiver he is covering.

If expected well, the crossing route is one of the most dangerous route concepts in the NFL.

It has become a staple of every offense at every level.

Yet, it is still safe to say the Saints do it as well anyone.