2011 NFL Predictions: Keys to the New Orleans Saints Season

The 2009 Super Bowl Champions have a lot riding on them for the 2011 season.  After losing in the playoffs to the Seattle Seahawks, the Saints need a pick-me-up for the fans. 

While the Saints need improvement in a few areas, they have made some interesting choices in the offseason, between trades and the draft, that will be essential to cruising through the NFC this fall.

Offensive Line

In 2010, the Saints were 3rd in passing, 28th in rushing, and 11th in scoring. Rushing in particular has to improve this season for them to be successful. 

The loss of Reggie Bush and addition of Mark Ingram will help set the tone for a re-vamped offense.  Darren Sproles should also have a great year for the Saints.

Drew Brees

The Super Bowl MVP is crucial to a winning season in New Orleans.  According to ESPN, he is currently in talks with the team about a contract re-negotiation.

Brees will certainly love reconnecting with wide receiver Lance Moore, who was resigned by the Saints.  Moore has been Brees' clean up guy and will be an asset this season.

Improvements on Defense

The Saints only had 33 sacks last season, a surprising number considering they have Gregg Williams as their Defensive Coordinator.

Williams will also need the defense to improve on interceptions—they only had 9 last season. 

They did acquire Cameron Jordan and Aubrayo Franklin in the off season, which will give the defense a boost from last year.

Healthy Marques Colston

The wide receiver has had five knee surgeries already in his six years as a Saint.  This will be an issue to watch because if he gets injured, the No. 1 wide receiver spot is open for Lance Moore, Devery Henderson, and Robert Meachem to compete for.

NFC South

The New Orleans Saints have been a tough team to beat in the NFC South in recent years.  With the emergence of Matt Ryan and the Falcons, the Saints will have to work a little harder for the title.