Ah the Saints, one of the only interesting games this season. The Saints bring a lot to the table and I think they could be in the playoffs this year if both McAllister and Bush stay healthy. But don't think their defense hasn't been improved.

Offense: We're gonna have some difficulty against this D. Ellis was a very good draft pick (seems we play all the top D-Line prospects don't it) who I thought was better than Dorsey. He plays the run better and still brings a good pass rush. They also have Bobby McCray, not a common household name, McCray got 10 sacks two years ago so he has potential at DE. Add him with Will Smith (not the actor) and you have a nice pass rush. Our O-Line has to step up their game here. We're gonna need to use extra blockers. It doesn't get any easier as we move up the defensive ladder. The Saints acquired a very good LB in Jonathan Vilma. He's very fast and plays the pass very well having an interception in every season he's played. Vilma is also a sure tackler who plays the run nicely. Other than Vilma, the rest of the LB are fairly average. We do need to watch Fujita. He's done good job adding to the pass rush, but he's starting to slow. The Saints had a shoddy secondary, but they did acquire the comically named Randall Gay. But he's no joke. He's a fairly decent corner who's had a lack luster career. I think he has potential and needs to be watched carefully. McKenzie was once a formidable corner, but he's starting to lose his edge and the Saints know it. Our TE can dominate their average safeties. I think the run game might have some difficulty, but I think it'll manage. Our keys to success are keeping Russell safe from this formidable pass rush and extinguishing the flaming Vilma.

Defense: The Saints offense is still one of the most dynamic offenses in the league. McAllister and bush are still one of the best RB tandems in the league. We have to make sure to wrap up McAllister. The Saints pack an elite O-Line which is gonna be hard to get through. Unfortunately, Rob Ryan blitzes about as often as Oprah makes a racial joke (very rarely). But if we were to blitz, I think we could beat this O-Line. After all, they only gave up 16 sacks (fewest). And if Brees gets time to throw, he's gonna give us headaches. He's one of the most accurate passers with some good receiver talent. Colston has become a great receiver in the league. It is however a mystery has to who will line up beside him. I checked Saints sites and they're saying it's their biggest position battle. If Henderson gets the nod, he brings an amazing speed threat. However it's nothing Hall couldn't deal with. Meachem is another speedy receiver but I don't think he's as talented as Henderson. I think our secondary can cover their receivers, but if we can't rush Brees, they'll present a very tough challenge. If we can get to Brees and watch the backs carefully, this game should be easier than most would think it to be.

Game: Raiders-18 Saints-27

Next: we finish up the NFC South with the Bucs.

Night all of my Raida Homies.