After a Two Week 'Brees,' Say Hello to This Years Arizona Cardinals

Drew Brees threw a franchise tying six touchdowns to highlight the Saints’ week one blowout over the Lions and followed that by throwing another three in the Saints’ rout over the Eagles in week two. In an offense outlined with stars such as Reggie Bush, Marques Colston and most importantly, Brees, the Saints will put up big numbers every week and will be this years surprise team.

In 2008, that Saints ended the season in last place at 8-8, but scored an amazing 463 points. This year, the Saints - with 93 - already have 24 more points scored than the second place Ravens have. Although the Saints ranked in the top five in offense for the last three years, they were often let down by their less than stellar defense. This year, the Saints defense, lead by ex-Jet Jonathan Vilma, will step their game up and help the Saints be successful in the playoffs.

The Saints first addressed their defense when Sean Payton took a salary cut and allowed the team to sign defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. Williams is a well respected, and extremely knowledgeable coordinator who has coached the Oilers, Bills, Redskins, and most recently the Jaguars.

After the Saints re-signed Jonathan Vilma to a five-year, $34 million contract with $17 million of that guaranteed, they went out and found a few assets to complement Vilma on the defensive side of the ball. They signed S Darren Sharper, CB Jabari Greer, and drafted rookie CB Malcolm Jenkins in the first round.

As the Saints defense continues to mesh together, Brees will continue to lead the best offense in the league. Once the playoffs come in January, expect the Saints to be there.

BEWARE: the following is a bold statement that may boggle the mind of many readers:

This years NFC Super Bowl representative will be the New Orleans Saints.

The Saints will find ways to win close games as the year ends, and will carry over that momentum into the playoffs. Once they are in the playoffs, they will be the team to beat because no team can stop that offense – not one.