New Orleans Saints: First Game Progress

The New Orleans Saints stepped into the Superdome on Aug. 14 for the first time since heir heartbreaking defeat at the hands of the Carolina Panthers, to play the Cincinnati Bengals, who are coming off a disappointing 4-11-1 season.

When the Saints came out of training camp, most fans were wondering if newly hired defensive coordinator Greg Williams could turn the Saints defense around; well the answer to that was yes.

His blitz packages disrupted the Bengals' offense and caused them to turn the ball over three times: two interceptions and one fumble.

Though the Saints only gave up seven points to the Bengals, they still are not at the point that Sean Payton wants them to be. For example, on multiple third and longs, the Bengals converted for big gains.

I do not want to call anyone out, but Jason David played the worst out of everyone, from his missed tackle on Chad Ochocinco to the touchdown reception with the penalty on him.

He needs to watch video and begin to work on better technique in regards to improving his pass coverage and tackling.

Now let's switch to the offensive side of the ball that showed that they still have a weakness, running the ball.

In the first quarter, the Saints had the ball on the Bengals five-yard line and tried running but picked up nothing, and that drive ended in a missed field goal.

Two drives later, the Saints went back to what they do the best, passing the football. On that drive, which was the final series for the first team, Drew Brees went four-for-four with 75 yards, ending with a touchdown pass to Jeremy Shockey.

Also, Mark Brunell threw a touchdown to Robert Meachem on one of the first plays of the drive.

Though Garrett Hartley is suspended for four games due to taking a banned substance, he was able to kick a 54-yard field goal after missing a 20-yard field goal probably due to anxiety.

The Saints came out and had a good showing. I would give them a B- for this game due to the fact that it was their first game action in a while.