WhoDat205

Saints DL vs. 49ers OL

Our DLine is starting to play well these days. The DEs are pressureing the QB and the DTs are getting in the mix by stopping the run and helping out with the pass rush. Clancy and Lake saw some action against the Falcons, so having them in the mix may help The Big Buffet stay fresh later in the game.

To Paraphrase the great Ty Webb, The 49ers Oline is...umm...not good. They've given up 24 sacks on the season. Some of the blame falls to the QBs holding the ball too long, but two dozen in 6 games is totally inexcusible. The Saints D-Line needs to have a big day against this weak unit.

RT Stinchcomb vs. DE Young

Stinch hasn't been great this season, but to give up four sacks in 6 games...well you can't say the OLine is not protecting the passer. Young has aged well and continues to produce at a high level. It is vital that Stinch keep the veteran in check Sunday.

Saints DTs vs. Frank Gore

Gore's production is down this year. Playing from behind a lot doesn't fully explain the sagging numbers, either. I credit the fantasy gods for trying to sabotage my fantasy season, but Nolan and Hostler may have a hand in it, too. Gore's averaging 4 ypc and is always a threat to break one. With the Saints shaky LB corp, it's imperitive that the DLine, especially the DTs, stop the run early before Gore has a chance to get into the secondary.

Reggie Bush vs. Patrick Willis

Reggie will be spread all over the field, as usual, but it will still be interesting the watch these two talented youngsters going at it when the Saints run the ball. A lot of the responsibility to block Willis will fall to Nesbit and Evans. With a 3-4 alignment, it will be important for SF's ILBs to attack the LOS on run plays, so I look for the Saints to use ex 49er Eric Johnson and Karney early in the passing game to get these guys playing on their heels.

Jonathan Goodwin vs. Sopoaga and Franklin

Having a head up nose tackle to deal with may make Goodwins job easier...or at least less complicated than having to double and scrape or pick up LBs. Neither of SF's DTs has been overly productive this year. Faine's injury probably came at the best possible time.

Colston vs. Clemens

Clemens has played up to his $80M billing this season. Colston's always a tough prospect with his size, but I look for Clemens to neutralize him this week. That makes it all the more important for the Saints to continue to spread the ball around to Moore, Patten and yes, even Henderson.

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Those are the matchups where I see this game being won or lost.

"defence's personal to allwats double team or watch is over, that one reason why the saints or not any good." - Vador101