Saints vs. Falcons: 5 Halftime Adjustments New Orleans Must Make

The Falcons are coming into this game hot, riding a three-game winning streak and another one would give them a slight lead in the NFC South. But the current division leaders, the 6-3 Saints, aren't going to let that happen easily.

So far, this first half has been a surprising defensive battle, as neither side has been able to get a lot going on offense. But with these two passing attacks, I don't think the low scoring will last long. Michael Turner has looked good so far and Drew Brees is carrying the Saints, even though his receivers have been dropping passes left and right.

Once this game does break out into a more offensive battle, it's going to come down to who can execute better in the red zone.

Here are five big halftime adjustments the Saints must make:

1. Pressure Ryan

Sooner or later, the Falcons' offense is going to get hot. It's not a question of "if," but "when."

Naturally that passing attack will be led by QB Matt Ryan. He's a good passer, but sometimes makes mistakes when caught in heavy pressure, especially when blitzed.

That being said, this Saints D really needs to get in his face and make him think about getting his feet moving and trying to squeeze in a ball where it can be picked. If they can get to Ryan and make a hit in the pocket, he immediately loses some confidence.

2. Get Sproles in the Mix

Where has Darren Sproles been today? The guy is a spark plug. When he's on the field, there's a chance he could bust a big play every single time he has the ball. He's hardly getting any touches, and it's reflected in the low point total the Saints have racked up so far.

The Saints really need to get him involved, whether it be through the air or on the ground. If they can get him at least a touch per drive, they have a shot to pick up substantial chunks of yardage. Whatever they are doing with Pierre Thomas is definitely not working so far.

3. Get a Big Turnover

What better way to take this home crowd out of the game, swing the momentum, and get a chance at some points than a turnover? As I mentioned earlier, they need to get to Ryan and get some knockdowns or sacks.

If they can get in his face, they may be able to force a sack and fumble, or a bad throw into traffic that someone can pick off. As the offenses seem to be stalling in this first half, one of these defenses needs to make a big play. Why not New Orleans?

4. Run the Ball

We know what Drew Brees can do with the ball through the air, but they need the running backs to step it up and complement him. If they don't mix it up, the Falcons can start to slowly take away the passing game and build a lead.

Mix in Sproles and Thomas and keep the defense honest so they can start running some play-action passes that might get a receiver open behind the secondary. Right now, the Saints are being too predictable and it's hurting them.

5. Stuff Turner

More worrisome than the Matt Ryan to Julio Jones or Roddy White connections, is one of the best running backs in the NFL, Michael Turner. He's started hot today and looks to be on pace for around 100 yards. The Saints really need to stuff him on obvious run downs.

And out of the back field, they need to have a spy on him and make sure he doesn't get out in the open field. That will definitely be one of the keys to the second half: taking away that weapon of the Falcons' offense. Otherwise, that balanced attack will tear them apart.