New Orleans Saints Look to Rebound in 2009

After two disappointing seasons, there could be some skeptics who might say, "Maybe the New Orleans Saints' magical run to the NFC Championship against the Chicago Bears in 2006 was just a fluke."

Well, maybe, maybe not. However, after a bit of run-ins at Saints' training camp, I have put together a few glimpses of hope for this season.

First of all, the acquisition of Defensive Coordinator Greg Williams might just be what the Saints need to amp up their defense, which has continued to fall short in the past. Perhaps nothing like that of the defending champs, the Pittsburgh Steelers, but definitely able to make plenty of huge stops this season.

Second, the much anticipated, healthy return of Marques Colston will help the offense. In my opinion, he's still the best receiver in the league. Anyone with this top receiver on their fantasy football roster will not be disappointed.

Third, you have to like the promising confidence projected by Mike McKenzie and Roman Harper. Harper, the fourth-year playmaker seems to be well-adjusted to to Williams' aggressive playcalling that is coming for this season. So far this off season, Harper is in great shape, playing with out-of-this-world swagger. As for McKenzie, he seldom disappoints for my taste. Oh yeah, and a supporting cast including Randall Gay, Scott Fujita, Charles Grant, Tracy Porter, and Jabari Greer can't hurt either.

Fourth, look out for the dynamic duo of Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush. Bush led the NFL with nine touchdowns in the first seven games of last season, but did you know Thomas scored nine touchdowns in the final six games after assuming the role of lead-back on offense? No doubt, Thomas will be the "go-to-guy" this season, and I am predicting he'll be one of the leading rushers in the NFL.