Thoughts on Saints' position battles: RBs, QBs, LBs, and Safeties (slideshow)
 

As the New Orleans Saints took Monday afternoon off to take in a movie (The Expendables), much on the field itself still is yet to be determined.

We are quickly approaching the second preseason game of the 2010 season. The Houston Texans arrive in town this week for a couple practices and then to face off with the Saints on Saturday night in the Superdome.

Game one against the New England Patriots showed some sloppiness and a slow start for the offense. It also portrayed plenty of problems in the defense and that especially holds true on missed tackles.

I'm not overly worried as to our starters because time will help them improve and get back on top of things. Before long, they'll be performing up to par and then some. My biggest thoughts lie with the battles that are going on in camp for some back-up positions and some that could even develop into starters. Let's take a look at some of them.

Running Back

The injury to Lynell Hamilton really caused a bit of a stir in the offensive backfield. Going into camp, it appeared as if Hamilton would take over for Mike Bell and be behind Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush. That became evident too as Hamilton was having a tremendous camp and then the freak injury occurred. Thus leaving second-year back PJ Hill and rookie Chris Ivory to compete for the third back spot.

Either one of them could end up getting it as they have both showed true talent and a lot of skill. Hill and Ivory run very strong into the pack but also have the speed to get outside and down field in a hurry. As expected though, Coach Sean Payton and the Saints brought in a veteran back to help out which is where Ladell Betts comes in. Betts has dealt with a number of injuries in recent years but is said to be totally healthy meaning he could really get right into the middle of this battle in a hurry. My decision is still out on this spot as we haven't seen Betts yet and there's still much more to see from the young guys too. If Ivory can hold onto the ball though, then that kid has a bright future ahead of him.

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Will the real ball players, PLEASE stand up.
Earning your place is the way it ought to be. Young or old, if you are the one kicking a$$ and taking names, then you should be the one with the job. This is where the kinks are worked out and the best rise to the top. Keep the battles raging.

I love good camp battles that energize the whole team.

betts will make the young work harder.

Betts will push them.

I would like to see PJ earn a spot