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Game three in the NFL preseason usually is when fans are going to see the most playing time out of their favorite teams' starters. Games one and two is a quarter maybe and then the fourth game may not even see them play at all. It's that third game that allows us as fans to see exactly what type of form and shape the team is in. It allows us to see if they're ready to start the season.

After last night, I'd say the New Orleans Saints are ready.

On Friday night, the Saints stepped onto the field of the Superdome prepared to take on the visiting San Diego Chargers in a contest that pitted Drew Brees against the man who replaced him as quarterback of the Bolts, Philip Rivers. We all know the story of the injury and how Rivers stepped in and Brees became a god, err...Saint.

It's long time over now, but it is still a fun tale to go back and think about when you realize how that whole Chargers/Saints/Dolphins mess worked out in the end. That makes every contest between these two teams have a little something extra behind it even if it is the preseason.

The Starters did get a good bit of work in though in the 36-21 Saints' victory though with most of them staying in the game until about midway through the third quarter. It's this third game that allowed coach Sean Payton to get one last general idea what his core group needs to work on before the regular season opener against the Minnesota Vikings on September 9.

While there are a few things that still need to be tweaked and oiled up, there was a lot that was corrected and even more that impressed. Let's take a look at some stats and other observations from the Saints' victory to see what went right and what went wrong.


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diamond12

Great article--insightful,,truthful and plain correct in every phase. By the way ,,any one noticed that kid with the number 48 on his jersey...man,,,not tooo shabby ,eh? LOL

DRsaints

I can't say I'm ever worried about Drew Brees stepping on the field and performing well, but he hadn't been showing too much so far this preseason before last night's game vs. the Chargers. I was happy to see him come out and look like he was in midseason form. After seeing the game last night, I think the Saints are ready for the opening game against the Vikings (except for the special teams, they need work, and fast).

QBREES9

Drew Brees' numbers for the game: 18 of 27 for 240 yards, 2 TDs and a QB rating of 119.4. I'd say that is right up to about midseason form wouldn't you? It isn't just the stats that impress me though because you can't help but look on in awe when Brees is out there performing his craft.

Danny Cox

Brees' rating would have been a bit higher but there were a few drops near the end of the starters' time in there. Thanks for the compliments Diamond.

Speaking of jersey numbers...I noticed Betts changed his from 40 to 46. Not sure how much longer he'll need it, but ya know.

Pete

+1 truth point Two-Dat

jeanpierre

We need Defensive Tackles Badly...

The Linebackers could use some help as well...

WVSaint

we need to fix our coverage of TEs, theyre killing us so far this preseason.

Pete

Gregg will compensate for the couple positions that can be improved some..I'm hoping Demario Pressley gets some more playing time @ DT.The linebacker situation I'm alright with,but still in all...HURRY back Vilma!Bobby hebert and Co. Made a good point last season in that our D showed up @ the most crictical times shutting down the opposing offenses making them look mediocre and that the rankings didn't justify their talent and will.