Bleacher Report - Articles by Keith Null

Saints Lose Centers Nick Leckey, Alex Fletcher

Keith Null — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 21:35:46 -0400

Sean Payton announced today in his press conference that the team has placed undrafted rookie center Alex Fletcher on the reserved/retired list due to a life-threatening kidney issue.

The complete details of the problem are unkown, but apparently Fletcher is already down one kidney while the other is in serious enough condition to possibly end the Stanford product’s professional career before it ever starts.

“Unfortunately, Alex will not be able to continue to play because of the medical issue,” Payton said. “He has one kidney and the one kidney he has needs some work. It’s pretty serious. He was upset and disappointed when we talked but he knows that he has to get this thing better.

Meanwhile, former Ram center Nick Leckey, whom the team signed this off season, had surgery on his right ankle to remove bone spurs.

Leckey will miss the remainder of the teams OTA’s but is expected to be healed in time to fully participate in the upcoming training camp.

Leckey and Fletcher were brought in to compete with Johnathan Goodwin for the starting center role—one of the Saints most pressing needs.

To replace Fletcher New Orleans signed Digger Bujnoch(6′5 285), a former University of Cincinnati starter at center and Giant practice squad player to the roster.

Keith Null is the lead writer at whodatdish.com, part of the fansided blog network. Follow the New Orleans Saints through whodatdish.com at twitter.com/whodatdish

New Orleans Saints 2009: Week 2 Game Preview- Saints @ Eagles

Keith Null — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 20:54:49 -0400

The last game between these two teams on December 23, 2007, saw Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb light up the Saints secondary to the tune of 263 yards and three touchdowns.

Westbrook totaled 100 yards on the ground to help seal the Eagles victory over the Saints 23 - 38. Once again the Saints were left looking for defensive answers en-route to finishing a disappointing 7-9.

On a side note, New Orleans swept the Eagles during the 2006 season, knocking them off in a NFC divisional playoff game. The playoff win secured the teams first appearance in an NFC championship game.

Next Meeting: Sunday, September 20th, 2009

Location: Lincoln Financial Field

Series Leader: The Eagles lead the all time regular season series between the two clubs 16-9.

Offensive Keys To Success:

The normally potent Saints' passing attack was derailed by Philly’s defense as Drew Brees was 30/45 passing for 289 yards, one interception, and no touchdowns. New Orleans has to do more than this in the next game - better protection for Brees and shorter play action passes will be the key. The Saints must control the clock to keep the Eagles' offense on the bench. Payton has to call more run plays to keep the defense guessing and they must convert on third down, something they could not do in the last meeting.

Defensive Keys To Success:

McNabb, Westbrook, and Buckhalter made the Saints defense look silly. Philly totaled 447 yards of offense finding the endzone four times, three through the air and one on the ground. The Saints' secondary must do a better job of keeping McNabb in check, they must apply more pressure up front as well if they expect to win. They have to shut down McNabb’s favorite target, DeSean Jackson, and keep Westbrook in check on the ground. Westbrook ran for 100 yards on seventeen carries the last game, an average of 5.8 a carry. It’s simple: shut down McNabb and Westbrook and you will win the game.

Game Stats From Last Meeting: Stats

Prediction: If Gregg Williams' new defense plays as advertised, I expect the Saints to pull out a victory here, 28-17

Keith Null is the lead writer at whodatdish.com, part of the fansided blog network. Follow the New Orleans Saints through whodatdish.com at twitter.com/whodatdish

Dan Morgan, New Orleans Saints Linebacker, Retires—This Time It's Final

Keith Null — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 17:09:09 -0400

For the second time in 13 months, linebacker Dan Morgan has retired, according to his agent Drew Rosenhaus, who announced the retirement on his Twitter page.

Rosenhaus says this time around, the decision is final and that Morgan would not pursue another comeback to the NFL.

“Dan Morgan has informed the Saints that he has decided to retire due [to] continued injuries,” Rosenhaus said. “Dan would like to thank the Saints for the chance to come back this year, but injuries would not let him continue his career. His decision [is] final and he will be moving on to focus on his restaurant business in Charlotte. Dan also wants to be able to spend more time with his wife and children.”

Morgan was once a standout player in the NFL while with the Carolina Panthers from 2001 to 2007. Morgan just couldn’t seem to stay healthy, battling injury in virtually every season of his pro career, and never played a full 16 games.

After Morgan was released from Carolina last season, he signed with the Saints early in the 2008 offseason, only to announce his retirement some weeks later, blaming his constant injury and their lingering affects.

He sat out the entire 2008 season before announcing he planned to make a comeback to football with the Saints, citing he was as healthy as he had ever been.

Morgan was re-instated on Feb. 12, shortly there after he joined the team in Metairie for the start of the team's offseason workouts.

He had been active in every workout and OTA since and by all accounts was doing extremely well. It was even rumored that Morgan may have been the favorite to start at the weakside linebacker position.

During the teams recent mini-camp on June 5, Morgan was hampered by what was reported as a very minor calf injury.

Apparently to Morgan, it wasn’t so minor.

After the injury, he dressed, left the facility, and was not heard from by the team again until he announced his re-retirement.

The Saints are now down two linebackers after Morgan’s retirement. The Saints fourth-round pick, Wake Forrest linebacker Stanley Arnoux, most likely will miss the entire season after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon during the teams rookie mini-camp.

Keith Null is the lead writer at whodatdish.com, part of the fansided blog network. Follow the New Orleans Saints through whodatdish.com at twitter.com/whodatdish

New Orleans Saints: Payton Pleased with Mini Camp as Defense Shines

Keith Null — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 17:44:33 -0400

Yesterday marked the end of the Saints first mini camp. By all accounts, it was a rousing success and definitely a very solid showing for the new look defense.

Reports have the Saints defense playing with more intensity and energy than in recent years—safeties flying in for sacks, linebackers stopping runs at the line of scrimmage, the secondary blanketing coverage and picking off passes, and constant pressure on the quarterback.

What a difference a year makes, as new DC Williams is clearly installing his brand of defense, changing the culture once and for all. There is only one word that can describe it, ATTACK.

Do you think the rest of the NFC South is paying attention now?

The general consensus among players and coaches is that this offseason is one of the more spirited in recent memory.

Every player or coach interview you read or watch emphasizes how much this team wants to win and the renewed dedication of everyone to achieving that goal.

To be honest, it's about darn time this team starts to show a little confidence in what they can do defensively; they have lacked swagger for far too long.

All this just tickles the mad visor (Sean Payton) to death. The head coach couldn’t be happier about the progress his team has made this offseason and has had this to say:

“I have been very pleased with where we are at this time of year in the different facets, whether it be overall fitness of the team or the way they are picking up what we are giving them,” Payton said. “I’m very encouraged.”

Does it get any better than this, Saints fans? Personally, I don’t think it can.

The wealth of positive information flowing from the Saints training camp is an enormously good sign, positioning the 2009 Saints for possibly their best season since 2006.

Some of the more memorable moments from the three day camp, as reported on the Saints Web site, are as follows:

-QB Drew Brees connecting on a timing route to Devery Henderson over the middle of the field for a nice gain.

-Reggie Bush bursting through a hole on the left side of the offensive line for a nice gain.

-CB Jabari Greermaking a highlight film interception deep down the middle of the field on a pass intended for WR Robert Meachem.

-DE Bobby McCray applying heavy pressure on QB Mark Brunell.

-MLB Marvin Mitchell knocking down a pass intended for rookie RB Herb Donaldson.

-DE Jeff Charleston flying off the edge to “sack” Joey Harrington.

-Bush taking a pass from Brees out of the backfield and racing up field for a long gain.

-LB Jonathan Vilma and S Roman Harper meeting RB Mike Bell at the line of scrimmage.

-DE Charles Grant displaying a strong pass rush move during one of the team periods.

-Brees to Bush over the middle of the field, DT Sedrick Ellis quickly spun away from the line of scrimmage and doggedly pursued the speedy running back.

-WR Marques Colston making a nice one-handed grab of a Brees offering across the middle of the field.

-TE Billy Miller made a diving reception for a 12-yard gain.

-DT DeMario Pressley knocking a ball loose from Brunell as the quarterback backpedaled.

-TE Jeremy Shockey made two nice receptions during the second portion of the team drills.

-DT Rod Coleman splitting a double-team and getting to the quarterback.

-S Usama Young recorded a pass defensed with a strong play on the ball.

-Henderson making a double move to shake free from DB Pierson Prioleau for a 20-yard gain.

-Colston making a hard catch look easy in front of speedy cornerback Leigh Torrence.

-Bush teaming up with RT Jon Stinchcomb to perfectly pick up a blitz and giving Brees time to find WR Robert Meachem for a nice gain.

-DE Paul Spicer knocking down a pass at the line of scrimmage.

-WR Paris Warren making a nice reception from Harrington, who released a pass a split second before a blitzing Chris Reis could get to the quarterback.

-LB Jo-Lonn Dunbarrunning stride for stride with FB Olaniyi Sobomehin, causing a pass to fall incomplete.

-WR Matt Simon making a nice grab on a pass from QB Mark Brunell.

-Charleston beating his man and getting to Brunell for a would-be sack.

-DT Remi Ayodele getting into the backfield for a would-be sack.

-CB Tracy Porter applying blanket coverage on Meachem and forcing an incompletion.

-Brees to Colston for a nine-yard third down conversion.

-DE Will Smith reading a play and knocking down a pass at the line of scrimmage.

-DT Sedrick Ellis snaring RB Pierre Thomas at the line of scrimmage.

-Billy Miller making a nice catch from QB Drew Brees for a 15-yard gain.

-Jonathan Vilma corralling Thomas on a toss sweep play.

-Mike Bell bursting through a hole, on the play CB Tracy Porter came up and deftly punched the ball loose and LB Tory Evans alertly pounced on it.

-Bobby McCray batting down a QB Mark Brunell pass at the line of scrimmage.

-Devery Henderson tracking down a long bomb from Drew Brees against man-to-man coverage for a touchdown.

-Mark Simoneau teaming up to stop rookie RB Herb Donaldson at the line of scrimmage.

-Remi Ayodele and S Chris Reis joining forces to sack QB Joey Harrington.

-Will Smith and DE Charles Grant halting Thomas near the line of scrimmage.

-Heath Evans on a wheel route out of the backfield for a 10-yard gain.

-Robert Meachem for a gorgeous play deep down the middle in front on a diving FS Darren Sharper.

-Jeremy Shockey making a nice catch and run for a nice gain.

-Buck Ortega, who had found a crease in the zone defense and quickly turned around to give Brees an open target that the quarterback zipped an intermediate pass into.

-Roman Harper jumping a route by Robert Meachem and forcing a pass to fall incomplete.

-Darian Barnes making a nice reception in traffic and pinballing through some would be tacklers.

-Paul Spicer recording a sack of Brunell.

-Lynell Hamilton making a nice catch and run out of the backfield.

-Tracy Porter knocking down a pass along the sideline.

-Leigh Torrence also recorded a pass defense when heavy pressure on Brunell forced the veteran signal-caller to get rid of the ball a few seconds earlier than he would have liked.

-Chris Reis knocking down a pass. Sedrick Ellis hustling to the sideline to defend a screen pass intended for Mike Bell.

-Vilma jumping up from his middle linebacker spot and knocking down a Brees pass.

-A coverage sack where the secondary and linebackers blanketed the eligible receivers and forced Harrington to scramble out of the pocket.

-Shockey catching a pass in front of Sharper, who reached in and wrestled Shockey for the ball as the two fell to the grass field. Shockey retained possession of the ball.

-Meachem making a nice reception down field from Brees.

-Spicer getting to the quarterback for what would have been his second sack of the morning session.

Keith Null is the lead writer at whodatdish.com, part of the fansided blog network. Follow the New Orleans Saints through whodatdish.com at twitter.com/whodatdish

Saints Continue Roster Shuffle: Cut Lineman; Sign Another Lineman, Receiver

Keith Null — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 17:20:47 -0400

The New Orleans Saints continue the offseason player shuffle, announcing the re-signing of guard Shawn Flanigan and the release of offensive tackle Augustus Parrish.

Flanigan was originally released May 22 after being signed as an undrafted rookie out of the University of Sioux Falls.

To make way for Flanigan, the Saints waived tackle Augustus Parrish, a Kent State standout, who signed with the team right after this year's draft.

Parrish seemingly has a good shot at returning to the team at a later date.

The Saints seem to be indecisive on who they want or don’t want, releasing players only to re-sign them weeks later.

Also, the team signed yet another receiver to the growing arsenal of ball catchers on the roster, bringing the total to 11.

Rod Harper, 6'1" and 205, was a member of the Arkansas Twisters Arena League team before being signed by the Saints.

He was also acquired briefly by the Green Bay Packers in 2008 after going undrafted but was released before the start of the season.

Harper caught the attention of the Saints after setting a Twisters record with 14 receptions for 275 yards and seven touchdowns in their 82-59 victory over Corpus Christi a week ago.

Keith Null is the lead writer at whodatdish.com, part of the fansided blog network. Follow the New Orleans Saints through whodatdish.com at twitter.com/whodatdish

New Orleans Saints 2009 Game Preview: Week One, Lions @ Saints

Keith Null — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:23:29 -0400

The last meeting (December 21, 2008) between these two teams was one to remember. Records were set for both clubs as the Saints 42-7 routing of the Lions solidified Detroit’s place as the first 0-15 team in league history.

New Orleans tied a team record with 32 first downs, never punting. The Saints had the best success on third down of any team since 1991 and broke the team record with their 50th TD of the year, finishing the game with 53.

Next Meeting: Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009

Location: Louisiana Superdome

Series Leader: The Saints evened the series at Detroit last season bringing the all time record to 9-9-1 between the two clubs.

Offensive Keys To Success: There is not much that the Saints need to change offensively heading into this next game. After all New Orleans totaled 532 total yards of offense, 351 yards through the air, and another 181 yards on the ground.

In a display of just how dangerous this offense can be the team totaled six touchdowns on the day, running in four by four different Saints. Drew Brees then pitched in two touchdowns of his own by connecting with receiver Marques Colston twice on successive drives in the third quarter.

If it’s not broke don’t fix it!

Defensive Keys To Success: The Saints defense actually played a pretty decent game against Detroit last season, a rarity amongst what was a consistently bad squad. New Orleans only gave up 255 yards of offense to the Lions and one lone touchdown to rookie runner Kevin Smith.

Lions quarterback Dan Orlovsky was picked of twice by the unit completing only 10 of 23 passes before being benched in the fourth quarter.The Saints must do a better job stopping the run and containing Smith. Smith ran all over them posting 111 yards on 24carries, averaging 4.6 yards a carry.

Orlovsky will no longer be the starting quarterback as it appears the Lions first round pick Matthew Stafford will be the starter heading into the 2009 season. It’s not clear how good Stafford will be but I don’t expect him to post big numbers as long as the Saints shut down his top receiving weapon in Calvin Johnson.

Game Stats From Last Meeting: Stats

Prediction: Just like the last meeting I expect the Saints to handle the Lions pretty easily at home, 34-6.

Keith Null is the lead writer at whodatdish.com, part of the fansided blog network. Follow the New Orleans Saints through whodatdish.com at twitter.com/whodatdish

Jeremy Shockey Found Unconscious Near Las Vegas Hotel Pool

Keith Null — Mon, 25 May 2009 13:56:38 -0400

It was reported late Sunday afternoon that New Orleans Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey was found unconscious poolside at the Hard Rock Cafe Casino.

Shockey, along with several other NFL players, were at the casino for the “Rehab”-themed pool party.

Apparently, Shockey suffered a bout of dehydration, causing him to go unconscious. Shortly thereafter, he was rushed to a Las Vegas hospital, where he was treated and released.

All reports have Shockey in good shape, and as of yet, the Saints have not released any further information regarding the incident.

It had been reported that Shockey was excused from the Saints' OTAs last week for “family reasons.”

It’s unclear if Shockey was at the party without the team's knowledge, but we will keep you posted as news is available.

Keith Null is the Lead Writer at whodatdish.com, part of the fansided.com blog network.

Edgerrin James Headed To The Saints?

Keith Null — Mon, 25 May 2009 13:42:26 -0400

It’s widely speculated that the New Orleans Saints will be the landing spot for former disgruntled Arizona Cardinal runningback Edgerrin James.

James’ and the Cardinals relationship soured last season after he felt he was not being utilized properly, resulting in him being benched in favor of rookie Tim Hightower.

He eventually regained the starting job during the teams' improbale post-season Super Bowl run and actually performed very well.

It was just too late to mend the ever worsening relationship between himself and the Cardinals.

When Arizona drafted highly touted runningback Beanie Wells with the 31st pick, it was all but a done deal.

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure, they say. James could be a nice fit in New Orleans.

After all, at 31, he still has the pop and vision to pick up the short yards as well as the power to punch it in on the goal line.

He has even been called a "more elusive Deuce McAllister," and Being compared to Deuce is one heck of a compliment.

The Saints admitted that they had tried to get Beanie Wells by trading up into the first round, and obviously, they failed. They want a big back quite badly and its obvious he doesn’t believe he has that sort of talent in house.

The Saints struggled in short-yardage situations last season.

If they could have converted some key third downs and a few goal line touchdowns, you could have been looking at a playoff team.

We will keep an eye on this as it develops, but don't be surprised if the Saints make a play for James.

In fact it may already be in motion.

Keith Null is the lead writer at whodatdish.com

Five Reasons Why Jeremy Shockey Will Have A Pro Bowl Year

Keith Null — Mon, 25 May 2009 13:32:30 -0400

Jeremy Shockey is arguably one of the better tight end’s playing in the NFL today.

Known for his fiery temper and extreme competitiveness, Shockey’s arrival in New Orleans was met with bitter skepticism.

Before he could even slip on his new number 88 jersey, fans questioned his character and desire to be a team player.

This was only the natural thing to do. After all Shockey’s tenure with the Giants was a rocky one. Reports had him alienating himself from teammates, questioning his quarterback play - Coughlin’s coaching, and it was even rumored he got into a shouting match with Giants GM Jerry Reese.

On top of all of this Shockey’s debut as a Saint was less than stellar. He played in only11 games in 2008 - posting career lows in yards (483) and touchdowns (0).

He also accused the Saints training staff of misdiagnosing his sports hernia, an injury that plagued him the majority of the season.

It’s hard not spit out the old “here we go again” slogan as we dread the impending Shockey affect.

But wait! All reports have Shockey healthy, happy, and participating in all non-mandatory team activities. Yes that’s right, non-mandatory team activities! Could it be? Has Shockey turned the corner in an effort to revamp his once promising career?

YES - the answer is a resounding yes. I think there is more to Shockey than meets the eye and I know he can be a phenomenal tight end - especially with Drew Brees throwing him the ball.

I also think he realizes that if he doesn’t get his career back on track with the Saints it could be the last straw.

So here are the top five reasons why I think Jeremy Shockey will have a pro bowl caliber with year with the New Orleans Saints:

1. Shockey wants a new contract.

Its no secret that he is after a new deal with the Saints. In the NFL you don’t get the money without the performance. The only measuring stick the team has is his performance in the 2008 season—which was dismal at best.

It’s obvious he must step up his play in '09 if he wants to step up his pay.

2. Shockey is healthy.

For the first time in a couple of years he is completely healthy - 100%. Injury has slowed him down over the last few years and no more so than in 08. He was visibly slower on the field and seemed to be in pain every time he turned to run.

I’ve never had a “sports hernia” but I’m sure it sucks. Barring any setbacks through training camp the Shockey we see on the field next season should be the Shockey of old, a fierce competitor and a hell of a route runner.

3. Shockey now knows the Saints offense.

His arrival in New Orleans was unexpected and late into the offseason. He never truly had the opportunity to get accustomed to Payton’s system and the injuries only increased his time away from the field.

There were several occasions last season that Shockey ran the wrong route and it was obvious he was not very comfortable with his new offense.

With almost a full season under his belt and full participation in this years off season program he should be back to pro bowl form.

4. The Shockey and Brees connection.

If you look back at any of the games Shockey played in last season it was pretty obvious Brees had little to no chemistry with him. Brees is the perfect example of a quarterback that covets the familiarity and trust he develops with receivers that “work” with him.

Lance Moore benefited from it last season as clearly Brees developed that trust in the once backup after Marques Colston went down. Moore totaled career bests in receptions (79), yards (928), and touchdowns (10) because of this.

Shockey’s newly found dedication to the team and Brees will show as the deadly accurate quarterback will hit him over and over again next season. Chemistry is a wonderful thing.

5. Shockey is competitive.

The NFC South now houses some of the NFL’s most elite tight ends. This off season has seen the Falcons acquire perennial pro bowler Tony Gonzalez through a trade with the Chiefs and the Buccaneers acquire the talented Kellen Winslow via a trade with the Browns.

Seriously, what other division is as stacked as the South at tight end? There is absolutely no way that Shockey wants to play second fiddle to either one of these guys. Expect him to play harder and better than he ever has before—I guarantee you he will not be upstaged by either one.

Keith Null is the Lead Writer at whodatdish.com

New Orleans Saints Tap Gregg Willams As New Defensive Coordinator

Keith Null — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 16:00:51 -0500

Just eight days after New Orleans Head Coach Sean Payton fired defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs, the team announced Thursday morning they had reached an agreement with prized defensive coordinator Gregg Williams.

Williams interview with Payton last Thursday, then again with the Packers on Friday. Williams was also scheduled to interview for the Texans vacant coordinator position but cancelled after his meetings with Payton and McCarthy.

There was also speculation that Williams may return to Tennessee if the Titans lost current defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz to a head coaching job.

It seemed clear that New Orleans had targeted Williams considering him their top candidate for the position after their meeting as they had not scheduled any other interviews since.

Payton went on record stating the clubs interest was "very high" in Williams and that he was "impressed with his high level of competency" during the interview process.

The interest was definitely mutual as Williams agent announced Friday that he had an "extremely strong interest" in the Saints defensive coordinator position.

It seemed like just a matter of time before both parties reached an agreement.

Williams is considered one of the best defensive minds in football today. He is known for his aggressive, attacking, blitzing style 4-3 defensive schemes. This is a perfect fit for New Orleans who already run a 4-3 scheme with their current personnel.

His style of defense is exactly what the Saints need to help bolster a struggling pass rush that has consistently under achieved in pressuring opposing quarterbacks.

He should command much more output from the Saints defensive ends Charles Grant and Will Smith, both of whom have struggled of late with injuries and inconsistency since signing lucrative long-term contracts.

Williams defensive schemes are radically different from previous coordinator Gary Gibbs "bend but don't break" defensive approach that had the Saints ranked near the bottom in every category.

The Saints ranked 23rd in the NFL in total yards allowed and tied for 26th in points allowed last season under Gibbs.

Meanwhile Williams spent last season with the Jacksonville Jaguars who ranked 17th in total defense during his tenure. The Jaguars decided not to renew Williams' contract after last season due to what was called "differences in philosophical approach".

His one year at Jacksonville was not his best output as a defensive coordinator.

Williams has built superb defenses while coordinator with Tennessee from 1997-2000, as head coach of the Bills from 2001-2003, and again as defensive coordinator with the Redskins from 2004-2007. During that span Williams has spawned top ten defenses in five-of-the-past nine seasons including three top three's with three different teams in the past six years.

This will go down as one of the biggest free agent acquisitions for the Saints in 2009. The addition of Gregg Williams will make an immediate impact on a struggling Saints defense; Saint fans everywhere are giddy with the anticipation of seeing a rejuvenated defense next season.

The move may be exactly what New Orleans needs to be a Superbowl contender. Even if Williams is only able to improve the unit to a "middle of the road" defense, that paired with their league leading offense, may mean big things for the Saints next season.

Payton And The Saints Looking For Respect , Playoff Bid in Crowded NFC South

Keith Null — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:11:17 -0500

Why can't the Saints make a playoff run? They are good enough offensively, everyone knows that—so why are they on the outside looking in time and time again?

Is it the bewildered history of the franchise that shy's the experts away from picking the Saints or its at times atrocious defense that can stop no one?

I'll be the first to admit that the frachise's history is less than stellar.

Since the inception of the Saints as an NFL franchise in 1967, they have posted just 14 winning seasons, are 2-6 in postseason play and have never been to a Superbowl.

Overall they have posted a 254-367-5 record. Pretty bad for a professional football team, to say the least.

But lets look at the modern-era Saints since 2000. They have had five winning seasons in seven years, two division titles, and the club's only appearance in an NFC Championship game in '06.

Pretty respectable for a perpetually struggling franchise.

Enter Sean Payton, Drew Brees, Reggie Bush, and Marques Colston—the saviors of the Saints team, and catalysts of the storied 2006 season.

All have brought valuable talent to the club, but none of the others are as valuable as Drew Brees.

Since Brees' arrival in New Orleans in 2006, he has thrown for more yards, attempts, completions, and has the best completion percentage of any quarterback in the league.

Currently, he is on pace to break Dan Marino's long-standing passing yardage record of 5,084 yards set in 1984. He is first in the league in a variety of categories—the accolades can go on and on.

But this team is still not considered a threat to make a run at the playoffs.

New Orleans boasts the top offense in the league, is second in points scored, and recently found a rejuvenated running game. But still no love?

Running backs Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas lit up the Superdome and the Falcons, hanging 184 yards on Atlanta with three combined touchdowns. Analysts close to the sport say you cannot make the playoffs or be successful in December without a run game.

Well, with Payton's promise of a more balanced offensive scheme, that's exactly what they have. A good and very dangerous run game that hopefully takes them back to '06 form.

Defensively, the Saints have not been a solid threat since the Mora era and the fabled "Dome Patrol."

Over the course of the last month though, the Saints defense has displayed heart and determination. They have played better than they have all season, pressuring the quarterback, forcing fumbles, and picking off passes.

That's saying a lot considering this unit has lost more starters to injury than just about any other team out there.

The outcome of the 2008 season is still yet to be seen.

Currently, the Saints are one game out of the second of two wild card spots in the NFC. They would need to jump ahead of Chicago, Washington, and Philly, among others.

The first step is to get by Chicago this Thursday at Soldier Field. New Orleans has three wins in its last four games, but Chicago has won the last two meetings between the teams.

New Orleans has the talent to win, even though many do not hold the same opinion.

The franchise needs a winning season just as much as the fans do to prove the '06 season was no fluke. They need to win to prove to analysts and commentators that they can be an elite franchise.

Will they ever get some of the respect they deserve? Most likely no, but maybe a few winning seasons will help quell the naysayer's and heal the fans.

New Orleans Saints McAllister, Smith Win Federal Injunction; Avoid Suspension

Keith Null — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 07:56:32 -0500

Saints running back Deuce McAllister and defensive end Will Smith won an injunction in a Minnesota District Court, effectively blocking their four game suspensions, at least temporarily.

Tuesday the NFL announced the suspension of McAllister and Smith along with three other players for testing positive for the banned diuretic bumetanide.

Bumetanide is an ingredient found in the weight loss supplement StarCaps. StarCaps promoted itself as an all-natural substance and did not list bumetanide in its ingredient list, a substance considered a masking agent for steroids by the NFL.

The NFLPA stepped up to aid the players after news of the suspensions broke by filing the temporary injunction on the players behalf.

The five players involved have very strong cases in appealing their positive test's, citing the maker of StarCaps for withholding information regarding it's contents.

Most notably the players are pointing the finger at the league itself, whom had knowledge StarCaps contained bumetanide, but did not disclose the information when asked; clearly a conflict of interest.

The fact that McAllister and Smith are now eligible to play puts New Orleans in a tough spot as they are required to keep newly signed linebacker's/defensive end's Ron Ninkovich and Tearrius George on the roster for at least three week's.

Ninkovich and George were signed earlier this week from the practice squads of the Dolphin's and the Cowboy's to fill the roster spots of Smith and McAllister.

Ninkovic, a former Saint, was cut by New Orleans before the start of the 2006 season because of knee injuries. George, at 6-foot-4 and 270 pounds, is considered a developmental pass rusher loaded with talent.

Both players have great potential in the Saints defense, but the team has not released any information about the options they will explore before a crucial NFC south game this Sunday.

Saints-Packers: Drew Brees Otherworldly As NO Whacks the Pack, 51-29

Keith Null — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 05:19:35 -0500

For the first time this season the New Orleans Saints were able to string two wins together, routing the Green Bay Packers 51-29, climbing to a 6-5 record on the season

In their first home game in 42 days, the Saints exploded on the Packers to the tune of 416 total yards of offense and seven touchdowns, tying a team record for the most points scored with 51.

As advertised, both teams put on an offensive show; gunning for one another from the start in what was a close game through the first half. New Orleans clung to a 24-21 lead going into half time, and the game was shaping up to be a last-man standing shootout.

New Orleans came out in the third quarter and erupted on Green Bay, scoring 21 unanswered points, blowing the game wide open.

Pro Bowl quarterback Drew Brees shredded the Packers' defense, completing 20 of 26 passes for 323 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions. Brees dominated what was among the leagues leading passing defenses connecting with seven different receivers.

Brees' favorite target again was wide receiver Lance Moore. Moore hauled in five passes for 115 yards and two touchdowns. His longest coming on a 70-yard scamper when he beat Green Bay safety Atari Bigby for the long touchdown.

Both Marques Colston and Jeremy Shockey turned in excellent performances. Colston was relatively quiet in the game until Brees hit him on a beautifully thrown pass in stride for a 70-yard touchdown. His only catch of the game.

Controversial tight end Jeremy Shockey played what may have been his best game as a Saint, catching five passes for 57 yards. Shockey was able to convert a few 3rd-and-long plays, helping to keep the Saints' drives alive.

On the ground, Pierre Thomas again shined for the Saints, carrying 15 times for 87 yards and posting a career high two touchdowns. Thomas ran with authority, pounding the Packers defensive line time and time again. Thomas is the team's leading rusher totaling 325 yards and six touchdowns for the season.

Thomas should see and increased role in the Saints running game moving forward. He seems to be just what New Orleans needs to spark an anemic ground attack.

Deuce McAllister again was used sparingly in what could be his last game at the Superdome and as a Saint. McAllister still faces a four-game suspension for testing positive for a banned diuretic, that if upheld will keep him suspended through the end of the season.

McAllister's future with the Saints is uncertain as the team may be parting ways with the veteran running back due to a high salary-cap hit and a rash of injuries.

In what was a bitter sweet moment for McAllister, he scored on a four-yard touchdown run to move ahead of Dalton Hilliard on the franchises all-time touchdown list with 54. McAllister was visibly emotional after the score walking to the sideline with teary eyes. Head coach Sean Payton reached out and hugged McAllister in a rare showing of emotion.

Deuce totaled five yards to go along with the touchdown on the night.

Defensively, the Saints looked energized and played like a team possessed. Stud linebacker Jonathan Vilma was again the teams leading tackler with eight. Vilma swarmed the ball helping to minimize Green Bay running back Ryan Grant, who was held to 67 yards on the night

The most surprising player of the game was corner back Jason David. David was brought to New Orleans as free agent in 2006, and ever since has been criticized and blamed for the Saints poor play in the secondary.

David intercepted Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers two times, his longest going for 42 yards to the Green Bay four-yard line.

The Saints were able to pressure Aaron Rodgers the whole game, keeping the young quarterback out of sorts. New Orleans totaled two sacks in the game, one from corner Randall Gay and one from big defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis.

Special teams play continued to impress as rookie kicker Garrett Hartley remained perfect, connecting on all six of his extra point attempts and nailing a 30-yard field goal.

Cortney Roby is emerging as a legitimate threat in the kick-return game. Roby averaged 34 yards on three returns with is longest going 62 yards, nearly running it back for the score. Roby finished the day with 103 total yards on his three returns.

It appears that the Saint's defense is finally gelling, and its offense is beginning to hit on all cylinders. Roby was the spark needed on special teams, and if they continue to play the way they have against the Packers, I fully expect them to make a playoff run.

Look for the Saints to continue their winning ways when they march in to take on the division leading Tampa Bay Bucs next Sunday on the road. In their last meeting, New Orleans was able to pull out the win at home 24-20. Expect another electrifying game in this NFC south showdown as the Saints contend for their playoff lives.

Reggie Bush: Back For The Pack?

Keith Null — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 04:51:58 -0500

New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush is listed as questionable for Monday night's showdown with the Green Bay Packers.

Bush has been sidelined since October 19th when he injured his knee returning a punt against the Carolina Panthers. Bush went threw a full practice on Thursday, on a limited basis, and according to head Coach Sean Payton he "fared well" going through his snaps.

Bush was held out of practice on Friday, strictly as a precautionary measure, and is expected to return to practice on Saturday. Both Payton and Bush are optimistic that he will be on the field for Monday night's game. Bush will most likely be a game time decision.

Bush still leads the team in total touchdowns with eight despite being out for the last three games. On the season Bush has totaled 294 yards rushing with two touchdowns as well as 366 yards receiving with three touchdowns. Bush is also a dynamic punt returner amassing 366 yards and three touchdowns so far this season.

There is little doubt that Reggie is a threat when on the field. Defenses have to game-plan for his presence resulting in relieved pressure on fellow team mates Colston, Moore, and Shockey.

New Orleans can only hope that Bush will be ready for action come Monday, the teams first home game in 43 days, for a difficult Green Bay team. Both teams are sitting at 5-5 for the season and both are contending for a playoff berth. Expect fireworks as New Orleans and Green Bay should come out gunning for each other.

Are the New Orleans Saints Preparing for Deuce McAllister's Suspension?

Keith Null — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 05:16:15 -0500

Running back Deuce McAllister met with league officials yesterday in New York in an effort to appeal a possible four-game suspension.

McAllister, as well as fellow teammates Will Smith and Charles Grant, tested positive for Bumetanide. Bumentanide is a diueretic considered a masking agent for steroids by the league and was ingested unknowingly by the players through water pills called Star Caps.

The maker of Star Caps have since pulled the product from the shelf. Currently, they have a few civil suits pending from players who took the pills on the assumption they contained no substances banned by the NFL. The ingredient list of Star Caps did not include Bumetanide as an ingredient, therein lies the problem.

Rumors have been swirling about the impending suspensions of McAllister and the other Saints players. The common assumption is that the league will suspend all the players involved.

The NFL's substance abuse policy is clear, players are responsible for what they put into their bodies and are strongly encouraged to contact the league with any questions regarding any substance.

In fact the NFL has a hotline for players to call for this very reason, which is widely known and used throughout the league.

The NFL has not yet released information as to whether the players will be suspended, but a decision is not expected to be made immediately.

New Orleans has made some interesting roster moves over the last few days that could be an indication of what they expect to happen to McAllister.

Running back Aaron Stecker was placed on injured reserve Tuesday. Stecker had been battling a hamstring injury dating back to training camp. He has been a relative non factor this season and the Saints finally made the move to free up the roster spot.

New Orleans quickly moved to fill the spot by signing free agent running back Mike Bell. Bell was signed as a undrafted free agent out of Arizona by the Denver Broncos in 2006.

Bell had a promising rookie season that year by totaling 677 yards and eight touchdowns. Bell was eventually buried on the depth chart and released. He then signed with the Texans, but was released during training camp due to a groin injury.

These moves may be in anticipation of things to come, but only time will tell what the league decides to do with McAllister and the other players involved. In the meantime expect Saints fans to keep their fingers crossed in hopes of a good outcome. This team or it fans cannot survive another critical loss this season.

Leigh Torrence Joins New Orleans Saints; Mike McKenzie Heads to IR

Keith Null — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:21:46 -0500

Saints starting cornerback Mike McKenzie has been placed on Injured Reserve and is out for the season.

McKenzie fractured his right knee cap attempting a tackle during Sunday's loss to the Atlanta Falcons, the same knee that was surgically repaired last December after he tore his ACL. McKenzie will undergo surgery later this week.

Cornerback Leigh Torrence will take his place on the roster, whom the Saints claimed off of waivers Tuesday. Torrence was waived by the Washington Redskins to make room for newly acquired veteran DeAngelo Hall.

Torrence, a three-year pro, was mainly used as a fourth cornerback on defense and a special-teams contributor with the Washington Redskins. He has appeared in nine games this season, recording nine tackles on defense and 11 on special teams.

His impact on a struggling Saints secondary is yet to be seen. Torrence was considered an up-and-coming talent and several Redskins players have voiced their frustrations with his release.

At least for now it appears that Coach Payton is willing to give the young Leigh Torrence the starting nod over Jason David and Usama Young. David has struggled mightily since his arrival from the Colts in 2006 and Young has yet to prove himself a reliable starter.

Saints-Falcons: New Orleans Poor in Atlanta; McKenzie Likely Out For The Season

Keith Null — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 07:00:24 -0500

The Saints fell to 4-5 on the season with an ugly loss to the Falcons, 34-20.

This was a must win game for the Saints coming of their bye week. They remain last in the NFC South after failing to win two games in a row this season. The Saints are now three games back from the division leading Carolina Panthers and likely out of playoff contention.

Drew Brees' heroics in the fourth quarter were not enough to help the Saints pull out the win. Brees threw for 294 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter alone and amassed 422 total yards in the game.

The offense stalled in the red zone with two of Brees' three interceptions coming on the goal line. The last went 95 yards for a pick six, courtesy of Atlanta's Chevis Jackson, the second longest in the history of the Falcon's franchise.

Brees finished the day 31-58 for 422 yards, two touchdown passes, and three interceptions.

Tight end Jeremy Shockey continued his streak of less than stellar performances, posting two receptions for 16 yards and dropping a crucial third down pass.

A bright spot for the Saints was the emergence of star wideout Marques Colston. Colston, who was sidelined for much of the first half of the season with a thumb injury, posted 140 yards on seven receptions. Although he dropped what looked to be an easy touchdown pass in the end-zone during the first quarter, it appears he is back to form.

Once again the Saints' Achilles heel reared it's ugly head. The Saints defense appeared out of sorts failing to get the Atlanta offense off the field and out of the end zone. They surrendered 361 total yards of offense, allowing rookie quarterback Matt Ryan to throw for 248 yards and two touchdowns.

Atlanta's Michael Turner chipped in for 96 yards and a touchdown, while the speedy Jerious Norwood accounted for 178 all-purpose yards, including a 67-yard touchdown pass.

The worst news to come out of the Saints loss is the appearance that cornerback Mike McKenzie is out for the season.

McKenzie fractured his right knee trying to defend a pass intended for Atlanta's Michael Jenkins. The 10-year pro has 23 tackles and one interception on the season. McKenzie by far is the most talented corner in the Saints secondary and his absence is a bad blow to an already struggling pass defense. Usama Young and Jason David are his most likely successors.

It appears the Saints are headed for another lacklustre season in a year that has been marred by injury and suspension.

They seemed destined for an 8-8 finish and once again find themselves with loads of potential, but no where to go. As much as Saints fan's would like to see their team in the playoffs, myself included, it seems unlikely that they can salvage the remainder of their season.