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1) Replacing Vilma

A lot has been made about linebacker Jonathan Vilma’s season-long suspension, but here at PFF, we’ve been touting the upgrade at middle linebacker with the signing of Curtis Lofton. His skills were on display as he picked up three stops, two of which came against the run. Lofton showed his speed and instincts before laying a big hit on Ridley for a two-yard gain and later displayed his agility in avoiding a second-level block for another stop. Along with the signing of DT Brodrick Bunkley up front, the Saints appear to have some pieces in place to shore up the middle of their run defense.

2) Akiem Hicks

The Saints first draft pick didn’t come until the third round, as they plucked DT Akiem Hicks out of Canada. Hicks was expected to take time to develop, but he showed some impressive ability in this game. He blew past center Ryan Wendell to force a run outside for a loss and later did the same while making the tackle himself. His first step quickness was too much in the passing game as well, as Hicks mixed in a hurry and a hit, the second of which led to an interception from QB Ryan Mallett. When he couldn’t get to the QB, he showed good awareness by batting a pass as well. It was an impressive game for the third-rounder who may see the field earlier than expected, particularly in a pass rushing role.

3) Junior Galette and Martez Wilson

As mentioned, Galette made life miserable for Cannon. Just as he did last season, he showed impressive quickness around the edge and he should be called upon to provide even more of a pass rush this season. Increased snaps are a must for Galette, particularly on a team that was very inconsistent off the edge in 2011. Because of last year’s woes, Wilson has tried his hand at DE and he has fared well in two preseason games. He showed well as a blitzer last year and in this game he looked like he has been expanding his repertoire on the way to the QB. As the Saints defense moves from Gregg Williams’ aggressive, all-out-blitz style to Steve Spagnuolo’s reliance on the four-man rush, players like Galette and Wilson will be crucial to make sure the transition is a successful one.

First Impressions: Saints vs. Patriots | ProFootballFocus.com

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