Happier, but still not happy

LongTimeFan · 11-05-2007, 07:22 PM

I feel going into any game now that we have a very good chance at getting the win and to me that's just sweet.
I'm sure that the players feel the same.

xan · 11-06-2007, 10:27 AM

While I appreciate your arguments, T-R, they're not held up to much scrutiny fact wise, save one.

From NFL Gamebook:

1-10-NO 33 (6:56) R.Bush right end to NO 40 for 7 yards (R.Mathis).
1-10-NO 48 (5:45) D.Brees pass short middle to R.Bush to JAX 34 for 18 yards (R.Nelson). P25
1-3-JAX 3 (2:48) R.Bush left end to JAX 4 for -1 yards (B.Iwuh).
1-10-NO 37 (12:57) R.Bush left end to NO 37 for no gain (S.Knight, M.Peterson).
3-10-NO 37 (12:06) (Shotgun) D.Brees pass short left to R.Bush to NO 41 for 4 yards
2-2-NO 38 (9:05) R.Bush left guard to NO 39 for 1 yard (R.Meier).
3-1-NO 39 (8:23) R.Bush right guard to NO 45 for 6 yards (K.Pettway). R30
2-10-NO 45 (7:36) R.Bush right end to JAX 49 for 6 yards (R.Mathis).
Timeout #2 by NO at 06:49.
3-4-JAX 49 (6:49) D.Brees pass short right to R.Bush pushed ob at JAX 43 for 6 yards (D.Smith). P31

6 of Bush's 17 touches (and 12 of our 25 runs) in the running game came with the game out of reach (the last 22 minutes of the game), where he gained only 19 yards; Jax was stacking the line to try to stop the run. He was more successful running when the game was in doubt - go figure. So the argument that there was balance or distribution is fallacious. The point still stands that the unwillingness/inability to run between the tackles when the game is competitive is an area for concern. Screen passes or swing passes aren't "long handoffs," they're timing plays that require an anticipation of a free zone to receive and run. They're not as successful this year as they were last year, and are, the way we run them, career shortening for Bush. You look at the pass/run ratios of the Pats (51%pass/49%run) - hey, you mentioned they should run more!, Colts (51/49), 'Boys (53/47) or Lions (56/44), you'll find balance and consistancy, despite their considerable weapons at WR.

My bad for thinking that Stroud didn't play. I missed the stat where he only had one tackle, no pressures and had little to do with the game. Probably looking over his shoulder for the Commish pulling his butt out of the game for drug use. Must have had no impact on his play or teammates.

And how is the argument contradictory that we beat a team that is confused and injured with their Best QB and best Corner out with injuries starting LT Barnes suspended for the game, starting RG Naole injured early, and and the reserves for both LT Suspension) and LG (injury), plus a backup LB (Suspension)? I'm glad we exploited that weakness, but that's the

4th team in a row we've beaten who's been missing significant pieces to the puzzle after losing 4 in a row to teams who have not been missing those peices.

Hence, the concern. Not sure why that's hard to grasp, but there ya go.

Sorry to put so much sarcasm in my reference to Mortal Lock, but I couldn't help noticing the reference to the Saints' inablity to beat teams who should be demoted to Div III, hence the concern. Again, not sure why that was hard to grasp, but there ya go.

And the rookie mistake/bad luck/confused play - McKenzie's INT. From the Times-Picayune (Brian Allee-Walsh, Nov 5, 2005):

Trailing 24-17 with 9:01 remaining in the third quarter, the Jaguars faced fourth-and-4 at the Saints' 34-yard line. From shotgun formation, Gray threw toward wide receiver Ernest Wilford in front of the Jaguars' bench. Wilford turned outside, Gray threw inside and Saints cornerback Mike McKenzie turned the Jaguars inside out, returning an interception 75 yards for a touchdown.

The Jaguars never recovered, falling to the resurgent Saints 41-24.

"Mike McKenzie, he's a good friend of mine, and I've got to hear that for the next year or so," said Gray, who has been thrust into a starting role while injured starter David Garrard recovers from ankle surgery. "It was just a wrong route. Maybe, it was miscommunication on my part and the receiver, but we'll get that corrected."

From the horse's mouth. Hence the concern. Not sure why there's a problem with the observation, but even that minimal confusion didn't deter that QB from embarrassing our defense. Without 3 of their starting and two backup linemen missing, they couldn't get a nose running much less their "all-pro" backs. And why run when we've got the venerial equivalent in JD?

Tough, smash mouthed football team? [URL="http://http://mvn.com/nfl-jaguars/2007/11/05/is-toughness-a-concern-for-jacksonville/"] Not so much.

For point 7, are you arguing against my theory that the teams left on the schedule are going to be difficult to beat, especially our divisional opponents? If so, elaborate. to alleviate the concern.

For Point 8, I'll be the first to cheer for every opponent of the Giants and Lions, but I'm of the camp that you can't count on your adversary self destructing. I've got all those teams finishing around 11-5, not 15-1/14-2 anyway, which would still put them in the driver's seat relative to the Saints should the Saints lose one more game and not win the division. Those teams have more room for error than the Saints, hence the concern. Not sure why that's difficult to comprehend, or not fact based, but there ya go.

Too bad the theory that I'm misinformed didn't work out. And I'm not pooping on anything. I'm happier, but not happy. This team is on the right track, but hasn't proven it can compete with the elite of the NFL, which is what they should be doing, IMHO. If they play well and win the next 3 weeks, they have a chance to control their destiny, despite shortcomings.

saintsfan1313 · 11-06-2007, 10:49 AM

alrite im jumping in....so i understand the whole "happier, but not happy" thing....my wife tells me that all the time.....but, what will it take for you to say that they can "compete" with the NFL elite. and what do u consider the NFL elite? The only NFL elite i see in the NFL is the Colts and Pats. Maybe Pitt with the way they played last nite. No one else is coming close to "elite". SO the fact that we dont play them, you wont be happy? NO ONE has proven they can compete with Indy and Pats. So should we just write off the season and hope that they both get screwed in the offseason? So if we dont play any "elite" the rest of the season, how much do we have to win by and what stats do u need so the team looks like an "elite"?????

xan · 11-06-2007, 11:11 AM

Dude, sorry about the wife thing. Been there, suffered that.

Indy and Tennessee are excellent teams that we've played, certainly in the elite category. Both have potent offenses and excellent defenses. Pats are on a different planet, while Pitt, Cowboys and Giants appear to be solid on both sides of the ball and are at least as on a roll as the Saints. The Lions and the Pack are doing well, but they've got interesting schedules ahead; there's at least two losses for each in there.

What will make me happy is winning the next three games and having our destiny in our control - somewhat. TB could lose to the Saints, win the rest and the Saints could wind up out of luck due to tie-breaks. We may need a lot of help in the end, which is the cause for concern.

And, it's not the stats, per se, that is disturbing, it is the deficiencies and one dimensionality of the wins against our opponents (who have tried to compete with terminal losses of personnel).

Plus, I want to see Reggie Bush lower his shoulder pads and drive into a cornerback just once rather than prance in fear out of bounds. He might inspire our O-Line to lower their pads for runs between the tackles.

saintsfan1313 · 11-06-2007, 11:43 AM

Jacksonville, regardless of whom was out, is a top NFL D. they just are. And they have the best running back duo in the NFL, hands down. We held both of them under 100 yds. EVeryone has always complained that are run D blows, well, we've had what, 5 straight games without a 100 yd rusher. We've held Jones-Drew, Taylor, Gore and Alexander under 100 if i am correct. thats pretty damn good. On another point, elite means elite, as in the best. Pats and Colts, thats it. Tennesse is not an excellent team. Lions and Pack are no where near Colts/Pats, or even Dallas/NY/Pitt. And those 3 are consitently inconsistent. As far as the "one dimensionality"(damn is that a word, lol) against jacksonville. We had a defensive touchdown, no 100 yd rusher on their team, 18 vs. 32 in first downs, over 100 yds rushing for us, over 400 yds passing for us. I mean i could go on, I would say thats one of the most complete games I've seen from the Saints. I mean our defense had what, 3 ints? when was the last time that happened? Only 2 penalties on us. I liked sunday, if we play that way from here on out, i think we can compete with Dallas, Pitt, NYG, Pack, lions, all them fools. Indy and Pats, thats a different story, im not sure the NFC Pro Bowl team can compete with the Pats.......

saintsfan1313 · 11-06-2007, 11:46 AM

damn i sound like a sunshiner again.......

trynaBaFan · 11-06-2007, 12:39 PM

I'm sure St. Louis has a forum. Why don't you go hang out there if it is so bad to be a Saints fan? I've had decades of bad, and I'm ready to celebrate the good. I repeat what I said in an earlier post "I don't want to hear it!!!"

saintsfan1313 · 11-06-2007, 12:51 PM

was that directed at me?

FrenzyFan · 11-06-2007, 03:04 PM

What I see here in this thread is all about how different people interpret things. Everyone seems to agree that we were playing badly at the beginning of the season. We got owned by a couple of teams, mostly because our offense couldn't do anything. We lost the other because Jason David had the worst game I've ever seen a CB have (and he hasn't gotten a lot better since). We lost one game due to what seemed to be lack of heart.

Since then, the play of the team has GREATLY improved and seemingly some cannot get over the awful showing early on this year.

I theorize that if we were playing at the same level we have been playing in the last three games during those first four games, we would have won two of the four we lost. I further believe that if we played at the level we played Sunday during those first four games (and Jason David's arm was still broken and him out), we'd be undefeated right now.

No matter how to slice it, Jacksonville is no joke. They simply don't role over for anyone. They are beat up by injuries. So are we. If you don't think the Saints deserve credit for beating one of the better teams in the AFC (something they didn't do at all during last year's magical season), then we'll just have to agree to disagree.

Tobias-Reiper · 11-06-2007, 03:39 PM

Woa, there...
Since when is an NFL game out of reach with 22 minutes left in the game?????

And when did I say anything about "balance" or distribution"? You are the one complaining about it, not me. I don't care who they do it, being 100 passes and no rushes, or 100 rushes and no passes, as long as they win.

And again, you make no sense:
First you say that the game was out of reach with 22 freaking minutes left. Ok. If the Saints can put games out of reach with 22 minutes left in the game by passing the ball, what the hell is wrong with that??

Then you say that Jacksonville was stacking the box to try to stop the run. Ok What do you want the Saints to do? Just run it between the tackles? Or be smart and PASS the ball?
And again, why is it that the other team's injuries count and not the Saints?

The Saints aren't missing any pieces? Really? Deuce wasn't a piece of the puzzle? Our starting center out doesn't count? Our starting DE hobbling around the field doesn't count? That we have no field goal kicker doesn't count? That the Saints are missing their start special teams player doesn't count? That jason David is playing CB doesn't count? Oh, no. That doesn't count. The Saints are at full power. And you have the nerve to highlight it!!! Is it THAT hard to grasp that the Saints are also missing pieces?

as for the quote in the article, what does that prove? I guess only rookies have those INTs. I've seen Farve, Brees, Mcnair, throw those, just like Gray, not so long ago, i.e, this year. Are those still considered rookie mistakes?

As for the stats, again, you try to make a point here, then you contradict yourself with the point there.You point out that Reggie got most of his rushing yards after the game "was out of reach with 22 minutes left". Why don't you go ahead and look when are the Patriots getting their rushing yards/attempts? I'll save you the trouble with these hard facts: 33 TDs passing, 8 rushing. No one playing the Patriots goes into the game with stopping the run being their #1 priority. No one. So I don't really care what percentage comes out adding passing attempts with rushing attempts then dividing it by # of attempts gives you: the Pats are destroying other teams with the passing game. Listen, we find $100, you get $1, I get $99. Hey, we got an average of $50. We are good, right? The Patriots put teams away passing the ball. Period.

Originally Posted by xan

While I appreciate your arguments, T-R, they're not held up to much scrutiny fact wise, save one.

From NFL Gamebook:

1-10-NO 33 (6:56) R.Bush right end to NO 40 for 7 yards (R.Mathis).
1-10-NO 48 (5:45) D.Brees pass short middle to R.Bush to JAX 34 for 18 yards (R.Nelson). P25
1-3-JAX 3 (2:48) R.Bush left end to JAX 4 for -1 yards (B.Iwuh).
1-10-NO 37 (12:57) R.Bush left end to NO 37 for no gain (S.Knight, M.Peterson).
3-10-NO 37 (12:06) (Shotgun) D.Brees pass short left to R.Bush to NO 41 for 4 yards
2-2-NO 38 (9:05) R.Bush left guard to NO 39 for 1 yard (R.Meier).
3-1-NO 39 (8:23) R.Bush right guard to NO 45 for 6 yards (K.Pettway). R30
2-10-NO 45 (7:36) R.Bush right end to JAX 49 for 6 yards (R.Mathis).
Timeout #2 by NO at 06:49.
3-4-JAX 49 (6:49) D.Brees pass short right to R.Bush pushed ob at JAX 43 for 6 yards (D.Smith). P31

6 of Bush's 17 touches (and 12 of our 25 runs) in the running game came with the game out of reach (the last 22 minutes of the game), where he gained only 19 yards; Jax was stacking the line to try to stop the run. He was more successful running when the game was in doubt - go figure. So the argument that there was balance or distribution is fallacious. The point still stands that the unwillingness/inability to run between the tackles when the game is competitive is an area for concern. Screen passes or swing passes aren't "long handoffs," they're timing plays that require an anticipation of a free zone to receive and run. They're not as successful this year as they were last year, and are, the way we run them, career shortening for Bush. You look at the pass/run ratios of the Pats (51%pass/49%run) - hey, you mentioned they should run more!, Colts (51/49), 'Boys (53/47) or Lions (56/44), you'll find balance and consistancy, despite their considerable weapons at WR.

My bad for thinking that Stroud didn't play. I missed the stat where he only had one tackle, no pressures and had little to do with the game. Probably looking over his shoulder for the Commish pulling his butt out of the game for drug use. Must have had no impact on his play or teammates.

And how is the argument contradictory that we beat a team that is confused and injured with their Best QB and best Corner out with injuries starting LT Barnes suspended for the game, starting RG Naole injured early, and and the reserves for both LT Suspension) and LG (injury), plus a backup LB (Suspension)? I'm glad we exploited that weakness, but that's the

4th team in a row we've beaten who's been missing significant pieces to the puzzle after losing 4 in a row to teams who have not been missing those peices.

Hence, the concern. Not sure why that's hard to grasp, but there ya go.

Sorry to put so much sarcasm in my reference to Mortal Lock, but I couldn't help noticing the reference to the Saints' inablity to beat teams who should be demoted to Div III, hence the concern. Again, not sure why that was hard to grasp, but there ya go.

And the rookie mistake/bad luck/confused play - McKenzie's INT. From the Times-Picayune (Brian Allee-Walsh, Nov 5, 2005):

From the horse's mouth. Hence the concern. Not sure why there's a problem with the observation, but even that minimal confusion didn't deter that QB from embarrassing our defense. Without 3 of their starting and two backup linemen missing, they couldn't get a nose running much less their "all-pro" backs. And why run when we've got the venerial equivalent in JD?

Tough, smash mouthed football team? [url="http://http://mvn.com/nfl-jaguars/2007/11/05/is-toughness-a-concern-for-jacksonville/"] Not so much.

For point 7, are you arguing against my theory that the teams left on the schedule are going to be difficult to beat, especially our divisional opponents? If so, elaborate. to alleviate the concern.

For Point 8, I'll be the first to cheer for every opponent of the Giants and Lions, but I'm of the camp that you can't count on your adversary self destructing. I've got all those teams finishing around 11-5, not 15-1/14-2 anyway, which would still put them in the driver's seat relative to the Saints should the Saints lose one more game and not win the division. Those teams have more room for error than the Saints, hence the concern. Not sure why that's difficult to comprehend, or not fact based, but there ya go.

Too bad the theory that I'm misinformed didn't work out. And I'm not pooping on anything. I'm happier, but not happy. This team is on the right track, but hasn't proven it can compete with the elite of the NFL, which is what they should be doing, IMHO. If they play well and win the next 3 weeks, they have a chance to control their destiny, despite shortcomings.

11-05-2007, 07:22 PM	#11
LongTimeFan Moderator Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Louisiana Posts: 2,403	Re: Happier, but still not happy I feel going into any game now that we have a very good chance at getting the win and to me that's just sweet. I'm sure that the players feel the same.

11-06-2007, 10:27 AM	#12
xan Professor Crab and Site Donor 2014 Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Princeton Posts: 3,355 Blog Entries: 34	Re: Happier, but still not happy While I appreciate your arguments, T-R, they're not held up to much scrutiny fact wise, save one. From NFL Gamebook: 1-10-NO 33 (6:56) R.Bush right end to NO 40 for 7 yards (R.Mathis). 1-10-NO 48 (5:45) D.Brees pass short middle to R.Bush to JAX 34 for 18 yards (R.Nelson). P25 1-3-JAX 3 (2:48) R.Bush left end to JAX 4 for -1 yards (B.Iwuh). 1-10-NO 37 (12:57) R.Bush left end to NO 37 for no gain (S.Knight, M.Peterson). 3-10-NO 37 (12:06) (Shotgun) D.Brees pass short left to R.Bush to NO 41 for 4 yards 2-2-NO 38 (9:05) R.Bush left guard to NO 39 for 1 yard (R.Meier). 3-1-NO 39 (8:23) R.Bush right guard to NO 45 for 6 yards (K.Pettway). R30 2-10-NO 45 (7:36) R.Bush right end to JAX 49 for 6 yards (R.Mathis). Timeout #2 by NO at 06:49. 3-4-JAX 49 (6:49) D.Brees pass short right to R.Bush pushed ob at JAX 43 for 6 yards (D.Smith). P31 6 of Bush's 17 touches (and 12 of our 25 runs) in the running game came with the game out of reach (the last 22 minutes of the game), where he gained only 19 yards; Jax was stacking the line to try to stop the run. He was more successful running when the game was in doubt - go figure. So the argument that there was balance or distribution is fallacious. The point still stands that the unwillingness/inability to run between the tackles when the game is competitive is an area for concern. Screen passes or swing passes aren't "long handoffs," they're timing plays that require an anticipation of a free zone to receive and run. They're not as successful this year as they were last year, and are, the way we run them, career shortening for Bush. You look at the pass/run ratios of the Pats (51%pass/49%run) - hey, you mentioned they should run more!, Colts (51/49), 'Boys (53/47) or Lions (56/44), you'll find balance and consistancy, despite their considerable weapons at WR. My bad for thinking that Stroud didn't play. I missed the stat where he only had one tackle, no pressures and had little to do with the game. Probably looking over his shoulder for the Commish pulling his butt out of the game for drug use. Must have had no impact on his play or teammates. And how is the argument contradictory that we beat a team that is confused and injured with their Best QB and best Corner out with injuries starting LT Barnes suspended for the game, starting RG Naole injured early, and and the reserves for both LT Suspension) and LG (injury), plus a backup LB (Suspension)? I'm glad we exploited that weakness, but that's the 4th team in a row we've beaten who's been missing significant pieces to the puzzle after losing 4 in a row to teams who have not been missing those peices. Hence, the concern. Not sure why that's hard to grasp, but there ya go. Sorry to put so much sarcasm in my reference to Mortal Lock, but I couldn't help noticing the reference to the Saints' inablity to beat teams who should be demoted to Div III, hence the concern. Again, not sure why that was hard to grasp, but there ya go. And the rookie mistake/bad luck/confused play - McKenzie's INT. From the Times-Picayune (Brian Allee-Walsh, Nov 5, 2005): Trailing 24-17 with 9:01 remaining in the third quarter, the Jaguars faced fourth-and-4 at the Saints' 34-yard line. From shotgun formation, Gray threw toward wide receiver Ernest Wilford in front of the Jaguars' bench. Wilford turned outside, Gray threw inside and Saints cornerback Mike McKenzie turned the Jaguars inside out, returning an interception 75 yards for a touchdown. The Jaguars never recovered, falling to the resurgent Saints 41-24. "Mike McKenzie, he's a good friend of mine, and I've got to hear that for the next year or so," said Gray, who has been thrust into a starting role while injured starter David Garrard recovers from ankle surgery. "It was just a wrong route. Maybe, it was miscommunication on my part and the receiver, but we'll get that corrected." From the horse's mouth. Hence the concern. Not sure why there's a problem with the observation, but even that minimal confusion didn't deter that QB from embarrassing our defense. Without 3 of their starting and two backup linemen missing, they couldn't get a nose running much less their "all-pro" backs. And why run when we've got the venerial equivalent in JD? Tough, smash mouthed football team? [URL="http://http://mvn.com/nfl-jaguars/2007/11/05/is-toughness-a-concern-for-jacksonville/"] Not so much. For point 7, are you arguing against my theory that the teams left on the schedule are going to be difficult to beat, especially our divisional opponents? If so, elaborate. to alleviate the concern. For Point 8, I'll be the first to cheer for every opponent of the Giants and Lions, but I'm of the camp that you can't count on your adversary self destructing. I've got all those teams finishing around 11-5, not 15-1/14-2 anyway, which would still put them in the driver's seat relative to the Saints should the Saints lose one more game and not win the division. Those teams have more room for error than the Saints, hence the concern. Not sure why that's difficult to comprehend, or not fact based, but there ya go. Too bad the theory that I'm misinformed didn't work out. And I'm not pooping on anything. I'm happier, but not happy. This team is on the right track, but hasn't proven it can compete with the elite of the NFL, which is what they should be doing, IMHO. If they play well and win the next 3 weeks, they have a chance to control their destiny, despite shortcomings.
	Calvin: "I wish I was a Tiger." Hobbes: "Common lament."

11-06-2007, 10:49 AM	#13
saintsfan1313 El Mero Mero Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Kingsville, Tx Posts: 669	Re: Happier, but still not happy alrite im jumping in....so i understand the whole "happier, but not happy" thing....my wife tells me that all the time.....but, what will it take for you to say that they can "compete" with the NFL elite. and what do u consider the NFL elite? The only NFL elite i see in the NFL is the Colts and Pats. Maybe Pitt with the way they played last nite. No one else is coming close to "elite". SO the fact that we dont play them, you wont be happy? NO ONE has proven they can compete with Indy and Pats. So should we just write off the season and hope that they both get screwed in the offseason? So if we dont play any "elite" the rest of the season, how much do we have to win by and what stats do u need so the team looks like an "elite"?????
	is this all really happening????

11-06-2007, 11:11 AM	#14
xan Professor Crab and Site Donor 2014 Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Princeton Posts: 3,355 Blog Entries: 34	Re: Happier, but still not happy Dude, sorry about the wife thing. Been there, suffered that. Indy and Tennessee are excellent teams that we've played, certainly in the elite category. Both have potent offenses and excellent defenses. Pats are on a different planet, while Pitt, Cowboys and Giants appear to be solid on both sides of the ball and are at least as on a roll as the Saints. The Lions and the Pack are doing well, but they've got interesting schedules ahead; there's at least two losses for each in there. What will make me happy is winning the next three games and having our destiny in our control - somewhat. TB could lose to the Saints, win the rest and the Saints could wind up out of luck due to tie-breaks. We may need a lot of help in the end, which is the cause for concern. And, it's not the stats, per se, that is disturbing, it is the deficiencies and one dimensionality of the wins against our opponents (who have tried to compete with terminal losses of personnel). Plus, I want to see Reggie Bush lower his shoulder pads and drive into a cornerback just once rather than prance in fear out of bounds. He might inspire our O-Line to lower their pads for runs between the tackles.
	Calvin: "I wish I was a Tiger." Hobbes: "Common lament."

11-06-2007, 11:43 AM	#15
saintsfan1313 El Mero Mero Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Kingsville, Tx Posts: 669	Re: Happier, but still not happy Jacksonville, regardless of whom was out, is a top NFL D. they just are. And they have the best running back duo in the NFL, hands down. We held both of them under 100 yds. EVeryone has always complained that are run D blows, well, we've had what, 5 straight games without a 100 yd rusher. We've held Jones-Drew, Taylor, Gore and Alexander under 100 if i am correct. thats pretty damn good. On another point, elite means elite, as in the best. Pats and Colts, thats it. Tennesse is not an excellent team. Lions and Pack are no where near Colts/Pats, or even Dallas/NY/Pitt. And those 3 are consitently inconsistent. As far as the "one dimensionality"(damn is that a word, lol) against jacksonville. We had a defensive touchdown, no 100 yd rusher on their team, 18 vs. 32 in first downs, over 100 yds rushing for us, over 400 yds passing for us. I mean i could go on, I would say thats one of the most complete games I've seen from the Saints. I mean our defense had what, 3 ints? when was the last time that happened? Only 2 penalties on us. I liked sunday, if we play that way from here on out, i think we can compete with Dallas, Pitt, NYG, Pack, lions, all them fools. Indy and Pats, thats a different story, im not sure the NFC Pro Bowl team can compete with the Pats.......
	is this all really happening????

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11-06-2007, 11:46 AM	#16
saintsfan1313 El Mero Mero Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Kingsville, Tx Posts: 669	Re: Happier, but still not happy damn i sound like a sunshiner again.......

11-06-2007, 12:39 PM	#17
trynaBaFan Registered Join Date: Oct 2005 Posts: 59	Re: Happier, but still not happy I'm sure St. Louis has a forum. Why don't you go hang out there if it is so bad to be a Saints fan? I've had decades of bad, and I'm ready to celebrate the good. I repeat what I said in an earlier post "I don't want to hear it!!!"
trynaBaFan Registered Join Date: Oct 2005 Posts: 59

11-06-2007, 12:51 PM	#18
saintsfan1313 El Mero Mero Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: Kingsville, Tx Posts: 669	Re: Happier, but still not happy was that directed at me?

11-06-2007, 03:04 PM	#19
FrenzyFan 100th Post Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 406	Re: Happier, but still not happy What I see here in this thread is all about how different people interpret things. Everyone seems to agree that we were playing badly at the beginning of the season. We got owned by a couple of teams, mostly because our offense couldn't do anything. We lost the other because Jason David had the worst game I've ever seen a CB have (and he hasn't gotten a lot better since). We lost one game due to what seemed to be lack of heart. Since then, the play of the team has GREATLY improved and seemingly some cannot get over the awful showing early on this year. I theorize that if we were playing at the same level we have been playing in the last three games during those first four games, we would have won two of the four we lost. I further believe that if we played at the level we played Sunday during those first four games (and Jason David's arm was still broken and him out), we'd be undefeated right now. No matter how to slice it, Jacksonville is no joke. They simply don't role over for anyone. They are beat up by injuries. So are we. If you don't think the Saints deserve credit for beating one of the better teams in the AFC (something they didn't do at all during last year's magical season), then we'll just have to agree to disagree.
FrenzyFan 100th Post Join Date: Dec 2003 Posts: 406	\"The AB brand of TP will hurt your O-ring.\" - BlackandBlue http://www.darrylbercegeay.com/wsmith1.jpg

11-06-2007, 03:39 PM	#20
Tobias-Reiper Merces Letifer Join Date: Dec 2004 Posts: 4,161	Re: Happier, but still not happy Woa, there... Since when is an NFL game out of reach with 22 minutes left in the game????? And when did I say anything about "balance" or distribution"? You are the one complaining about it, not me. I don't care who they do it, being 100 passes and no rushes, or 100 rushes and no passes, as long as they win. And again, you make no sense: First you say that the game was out of reach with 22 freaking minutes left. Ok. If the Saints can put games out of reach with 22 minutes left in the game by passing the ball, what the hell is wrong with that?? Then you say that Jacksonville was stacking the box to try to stop the run. Ok What do you want the Saints to do? Just run it between the tackles? Or be smart and PASS the ball? And again, why is it that the other team's injuries count and not the Saints? The Saints aren't missing any pieces? Really? Deuce wasn't a piece of the puzzle? Our starting center out doesn't count? Our starting DE hobbling around the field doesn't count? That we have no field goal kicker doesn't count? That the Saints are missing their start special teams player doesn't count? That jason David is playing CB doesn't count? Oh, no. That doesn't count. The Saints are at full power. And you have the nerve to highlight it!!! Is it THAT hard to grasp that the Saints are also missing pieces? as for the quote in the article, what does that prove? I guess only rookies have those INTs. I've seen Farve, Brees, Mcnair, throw those, just like Gray, not so long ago, i.e, this year. Are those still considered rookie mistakes? As for the stats, again, you try to make a point here, then you contradict yourself with the point there.You point out that Reggie got most of his rushing yards after the game "was out of reach with 22 minutes left". Why don't you go ahead and look when are the Patriots getting their rushing yards/attempts? I'll save you the trouble with these hard facts: 33 TDs passing, 8 rushing. No one playing the Patriots goes into the game with stopping the run being their #1 priority. No one. So I don't really care what percentage comes out adding passing attempts with rushing attempts then dividing it by # of attempts gives you: the Pats are destroying other teams with the passing game. Listen, we find $100, you get $1, I get $99. Hey, we got an average of $50. We are good, right? The Patriots put teams away passing the ball. Period. Originally Posted by xan While I appreciate your arguments, T-R, they're not held up to much scrutiny fact wise, save one. From NFL Gamebook: 1-10-NO 33 (6:56) R.Bush right end to NO 40 for 7 yards (R.Mathis). 1-10-NO 48 (5:45) D.Brees pass short middle to R.Bush to JAX 34 for 18 yards (R.Nelson). P25 1-3-JAX 3 (2:48) R.Bush left end to JAX 4 for -1 yards (B.Iwuh). 1-10-NO 37 (12:57) R.Bush left end to NO 37 for no gain (S.Knight, M.Peterson). 3-10-NO 37 (12:06) (Shotgun) D.Brees pass short left to R.Bush to NO 41 for 4 yards 2-2-NO 38 (9:05) R.Bush left guard to NO 39 for 1 yard (R.Meier). 3-1-NO 39 (8:23) R.Bush right guard to NO 45 for 6 yards (K.Pettway). R30 2-10-NO 45 (7:36) R.Bush right end to JAX 49 for 6 yards (R.Mathis). Timeout #2 by NO at 06:49. 3-4-JAX 49 (6:49) D.Brees pass short right to R.Bush pushed ob at JAX 43 for 6 yards (D.Smith). P31 6 of Bush's 17 touches (and 12 of our 25 runs) in the running game came with the game out of reach (the last 22 minutes of the game), where he gained only 19 yards; Jax was stacking the line to try to stop the run. He was more successful running when the game was in doubt - go figure. So the argument that there was balance or distribution is fallacious. The point still stands that the unwillingness/inability to run between the tackles when the game is competitive is an area for concern. Screen passes or swing passes aren't "long handoffs," they're timing plays that require an anticipation of a free zone to receive and run. They're not as successful this year as they were last year, and are, the way we run them, career shortening for Bush. You look at the pass/run ratios of the Pats (51%pass/49%run) - hey, you mentioned they should run more!, Colts (51/49), 'Boys (53/47) or Lions (56/44), you'll find balance and consistancy, despite their considerable weapons at WR. My bad for thinking that Stroud didn't play. I missed the stat where he only had one tackle, no pressures and had little to do with the game. Probably looking over his shoulder for the Commish pulling his butt out of the game for drug use. Must have had no impact on his play or teammates. And how is the argument contradictory that we beat a team that is confused and injured with their Best QB and best Corner out with injuries starting LT Barnes suspended for the game, starting RG Naole injured early, and and the reserves for both LT Suspension) and LG (injury), plus a backup LB (Suspension)? I'm glad we exploited that weakness, but that's the 4th team in a row we've beaten who's been missing significant pieces to the puzzle after losing 4 in a row to teams who have not been missing those peices. Hence, the concern. Not sure why that's hard to grasp, but there ya go. Sorry to put so much sarcasm in my reference to Mortal Lock, but I couldn't help noticing the reference to the Saints' inablity to beat teams who should be demoted to Div III, hence the concern. Again, not sure why that was hard to grasp, but there ya go. And the rookie mistake/bad luck/confused play - McKenzie's INT. From the Times-Picayune (Brian Allee-Walsh, Nov 5, 2005): From the horse's mouth. Hence the concern. Not sure why there's a problem with the observation, but even that minimal confusion didn't deter that QB from embarrassing our defense. Without 3 of their starting and two backup linemen missing, they couldn't get a nose running much less their "all-pro" backs. And why run when we've got the venerial equivalent in JD? Tough, smash mouthed football team? [url="http://http://mvn.com/nfl-jaguars/2007/11/05/is-toughness-a-concern-for-jacksonville/"] Not so much. For point 7, are you arguing against my theory that the teams left on the schedule are going to be difficult to beat, especially our divisional opponents? If so, elaborate. to alleviate the concern. For Point 8, I'll be the first to cheer for every opponent of the Giants and Lions, but I'm of the camp that you can't count on your adversary self destructing. I've got all those teams finishing around 11-5, not 15-1/14-2 anyway, which would still put them in the driver's seat relative to the Saints should the Saints lose one more game and not win the division. Those teams have more room for error than the Saints, hence the concern. Not sure why that's difficult to comprehend, or not fact based, but there ya go. Too bad the theory that I'm misinformed didn't work out. And I'm not pooping on anything. I'm happier, but not happy. This team is on the right track, but hasn't proven it can compete with the elite of the NFL, which is what they should be doing, IMHO. If they play well and win the next 3 weeks, they have a chance to control their destiny, despite shortcomings.
	'Cause the simple man pays the thrills, the bills and the pills that kill

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