The Perfect Saints Gumbo For 2009

It is second nature to people in southern Louisiana, all gumbo starts with a roux.

What is a roux?

Tangible, roux-a binding agent that consists of flour and butter.

Intangible, roux-the delicate blending of flour in butter over a low flame until a light golden brown, now temper in as to not lump.

All tangible skills can be taught, most intangibles skills are earned from knowledge and practice.

On paper the New Orleans Saints have the tangibles

Gregg Williams as defensive coordinator, rookies like corner back Malcolm Jenkins, and safety Chip Vaughn add new spice. With the acquisition of free agent Darren Sharper and existing personnel shifts, the 2009 season has all the makings of a savory gumbo.

Coach Sean Payton has promoted Pete Carmichael Jr, to Offensive Coordinator because he knows what he's getting. He knows that his offense has some fine tuning to do, sprinkle in few more special plays around new or different talent.

With the freshest and finest of ingredients you are assured a great dish.

Keeping the Black and Gold injury free for the upcoming season requires going that extra mile during the off-season. From conditioning to doctors appointments, whatever it takes to make sure that you are ready.

Being able to count on such anchors as Drew Brees and Randall Gay for their skills and leadership while looking forward to the play of Robert Meachem, Reggie Bush and Marques Colston can only "sweeten the pot."

With all of these ingredients I am predicting a gumbo fit for Emeril Lagasse' to serve at any of his eating establishments.

For the New Orleans Saints: an NFC South Title with the probability of the NFC title game. Provided the Special Teams, the rice, isn't over cooked.