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METAIRIE, La. ― Whatever you do, don’t read too much into the stats from Saturday morning’s scrimmage between the Saints offense and defense.

Yes, Drew Brees had an “off day,” going 6 of 16 and missing on 10 of his final 12 passes.

Yes, the offense scored only one touchdown.

And yes, the defense came up with six sacks.

But what you need to know is this ― ever heard that old maxim that the defense is always ahead of the offense early on? Well, there’s a reason it’s around.

It’s true.

Though the defense has plays and responsibilities, it can, to all intents and purposes, just run to the football and make the tackle.

The offense, on the other hand, runs on rhythm and being precise.

Blocking has to be perfect. Routes have to be impeccable. The quarterbacks have to have a trust and knowledge that the receivers will be exactly where they’re supposed to be when they’re supposed to be there.

Nine days into practice and 14 sessions in, it’s not unexpected that the defense is going to shut down the offense.

Even if it is the Saints’ offense that led the NFL a season ago.

And yes, even if it is an offense led by Brees.

What you can take from the scrimmage is that the fight for positions on defense obviously is between players that are not only better than average, they fit together with their teammates.

You can take this to the bank, as well: the offense will get better, the timing will arrive and you’ll recognize it by Sept. 9.

So, don’t worry that Brees missed on 10 of his final 12 passes.

And don’t worry that the offense gave up six sacks and scored only one touchdown.

There’s plenty of time.

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diamond12

People...........you're not gonna believe what i am about to say.........but the Defense has peaked!!!!!!!As good as our offense is...the defensive squad of the New Orleans Saints has surpassed beyond anyone's expectations. I believe this will help us in games when we dont have to rely on offense to win them all the time...this is simply.maaaavelous!

strato

I hope your right...and i hope we keep getting better...

Rugby Saint II

Amen brother!

SmashMouth

If it has peaked, that means it's not getting better. If we do get a top ten defense, it's going to get ugly for our opponents this year.

FireVenturi

Was just a scrimmage, lets not get too excited yet! They will be better not sure about peaking though.

QBREES9

Excited yes an I understand. It was just a scrimmage

st thomas

did'nt the O struggle at times thru some practices last year against G.W.'s pressure packed defense's. i believe it only gets the offense better. look out minnsackopus