Kristian: Thomas expected to play this Sunday?
 

Kristian Garic Reporting

It's been nearly three months since Saints running back Pierre Thomas has suited up on game day for the black and gold. That could change this Sunday at home against the St. Louis Rams, according to Saints Coach Sean Payton.

"It was probably the first good full week (last week)that he's had where he has taken reps both on offense, worked on scout team and done a number of things," Payton said. "So I'm optimistic that we'll be able to get him into the lineup this week."

Thomas explained that his chances of playing this week are better. "I was told that, I feel confident this week," Thomas said.

The possibility of re-injuring his ankle is still real for Thomas, but as Coach Payton explained, it's more about getting Thomas in game shape.

"We were in pads last week and on Wednesday we had some full-go periods and so that's helpful. That's the challenge when you're out so long, getting back into that game shape," Payton told us. A really good indication on Thomas' playing status will be Wednesday when he participates in practice.

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This will be interesting. I wouldn't expect him to look very sharp if he does come back. Probably take 2 or three games to get the feel and rythem and his "game face".

PT doesn't have to be full on this week. But he definitely needs to be ready for when we play the Ravens.

SP doesn't rush anybody, and the way Ivory has been playing, why would he?

Let him rest up this week cause they are going to need him against the Ravens and Falcons .... screen plays aren't the same with him out

He's been resting all season. It is best to get some game time in before facing the Ravens and Falcons. Besides, every game is critical and we need our full squad to insure a win. We cannot look past the Rams. Remember 2007.

agreed

Our screen issues are not because of a lack of PT.... It is because of a lack of blocking for the guy who gets the ball.. I watched the Bengals replay last night. On screens we are getting tackled behind the line of scrimmage.

A successful screen takes a few yards to develop. Even everyone's all might screener PT cant go anywhere when he is hit as soon as the ball is in his hands. The D is getting behind our "screen".

Yeah you rite. Let Ivory pound the Rams into oblivion and ease PT in for a play or 3. He needs to be ready to be a weapon against Baltimore.

Our screen game will be back in business.