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From FootballOutsiders:

That all said, we came into this year projecting the Saints to have the worst defense in the NFL. They didn't disappoint in Week 1. Jabari Greer was inactive, and Johnny Patrick also left the game with a knee injury. That left the Saints using converted safety and 2012 fifth-round pick White at outside corner on 97 percent of the snaps, and forced recent waiver claim Jerome Murphy right into the fire in sub packages. Patrick Robinson, the only corner the Saints actually planned to enter the game with, also continues to be inconsistent at best.



Still, the real issue was that the lack of pass rush from last season wasn't really addressed, and the internal options that New Orleans is banking on improvement from (CameronJordan, Martez Wilson) didn't really do much to harass Griffin in the pocket. When New Orleans got pressure on Griffin, it was mostly because their backside end read the play-action and stayed home. (That also partially explains Griffin's insane numbers when pressured.) The run defense was generally fine, especially considering the Saints were dealing with a rookie quarterback running the option. An injury-riddled secondary with a poor pass rush is a combination that can make a lot of quarterbacks look good -- let alone one who actually is good.

I guess we're just going to have to accept lower expectations, because neither scheme or personnel are present for success. 2014 draft bets, anyone?

For the complete article...
FOOTBALL OUTSIDERS: Innovative Statistics, Intelligent Analysis | Any Given Sunday: Redskins over Saints

|Mitch|

I think the pass rush will get better, this was only the first game in Spags complex defense.

CharityMike

Ellis has been here 2 years 2 long. We only addressed the DE position with Jordan. Smith has to go. His good days are behind him. He dissapears to often.

When will we ever get a STUD player on D? I know last year we couldn't expect much with our 1st pick being in the 3rd rd. But we have had plenty of opportunities.

NuNu318

I think they need to use our young d lineman more. Hicks & Walker weren't even activated for the game. And Gallette didn't get much time either.

Danno

Great point. I'd forgotten that his defense was complex and took time to implement.

TheOak

RG III -Rookie

Pierre Garçon - Payton Mannings go to guy. He is no frikken slouch.

None of the first 6 passes went past the line of scrimmage. They were all quick pass plays that he dominated with at Baylor..... The offensive strategy was designed to calm him by starting with what he is used to.

Mardigras9

Was thinking this watching the Ravens on Monday night. They have some great DB's. How nice would that be?

Shoe.

Yeah not often that you see a team with not one but two first-ballot HOF defensive players

Must be nice.

Not complaining though, I'm very happy that I have the privilege to cheer for a team with ONE first-ballot HOFer!!