New Orleans Saints Review

One of the match-ups I really like in the Saints’ upcoming Super Bowl clash with the Colts is the New Orleans running game vs. the Indianapolis defense.  To me, this is the one clear advantage that either team has entering this game.

The Colts defense is known for having a great pass rush with ends Dwight Freeney (13.5 sacks) and Robert Mathis (9.5 sacks).  But against the run, the Colts rank just 26th in the NFL, allowing 126.5 yards per game.  This is an area where the Saints have the ability to take advantage.

The 4-headed monster that is the New Orleans rushing attack averaged 131.6 yards per game, good for 6th in the NFL.  Backs Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell,  Reggie Bush & Lynell Hamilton could very well decide which team gets to hold the Lombardi trophy.

I’ve praised Saints coach Sean Payton all year for committing to a balanced attack on offense.  I don’t think balance could be of any greater importance than it will be in this game.

Thomas has had an outstanding playoff run so far, with 27 carries for 113 yards and a touchdown.  He’s also caught 6 passes for 56 yards and a score.  I’d look for Payton to feed him the ball early and often.

Thomas features a very aggressive, physical running style and has also shown the ability to make people miss.  I’d really like the Saints take advantage of his skills and wear down the Indy front seven over the course of the game.

While the Saints aren’t known for being a ball control offense, I think it would benefit them to go into that mode at appropriate times against the Colts.  It can slow down the Indianapolis pass rush, which will give Drew Brees more than enough time to find an open man down the field.  It will also keep Peyton Manning on the sidelines and give him less time to work with.

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This entry was posted on Saturday, January 30th, 2010 at 9:28 am and is filed under Opinion, Super Bowl Season. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.