GumboBC

Well, here we are again. Another long off-season has passed and training camp has started. Even though training camp is here, there still isn't a whole lot NEW to talk about.

Training camp provides more coverage of the Saints and more general discussion, but it really doesn't provide any valuable insight for what's in store for the regular season. Even though I couldn't wait for training camp to get here it has only made me anticipate the preseason games even more. And I'm sure when the preseaon games get under way, I'll be so ready for the REAL games.

It's so many unanswered questions that hang over the Saints this year. Of course, this is nothing unusual, but because there's so much talent on this team, it's both exciting and scary.

It's exciting because if it all comes together we could be one of the best teams in the league. On the other hand, it's scary because this is the Saints we're talking about. This is a team that has always found a way to self-implode under the current regime. Not exactly a comforting feeling for me.

Still, my expectations are higher than they've ever been for this team. All is forgiven right now. I'm not concerned about the past. All I want is to see this talented team play up to expectations. I'm one that believes to correct a problem one must first understand what the problem is!!

Every year Haslett tells us what he thinks the problems were and what steps he's taken to correct them. Yet not a lot changes as far as the overall record is concerned. And the bottom line is, wins are all that counts. You don't get bonus points for coming close.

This team, under Haslett, has been like a ship without a rudder. In other words, it has had no direction. No one to navigate it though the rough seas.

For the most part this team has had very youg guys at KEY positions that needed experience and needed to mature. I think we have that now.

Brooks, Horn and Deuce provide the offense with a dynamic trio. Stallworth is entering his 3rd year and should really open defenses up. Boo and Ernie Conwell are a good one-two punch at the TE position. The offensive line is very good. Depth looks very good at every position on offense.

On defense we've got a very talented front four. I feel there's enough competetion at the linebacer positions that someone should emerge and be a quality player. I even feel like the secondary will be a strong suit.

But, here's what I'm unsure about. And that's COACHING. It's hard for me to convince myself that Haslett WILL get the job done. I think Haslett knows he's made some mistakes that have cost this team. But, from hearing Haslett talk this year, somehow I get the feeling that he understands what needs to be done. Not only that, but he seems to be doing the right things so far. I like the fact that he demoted Sully to the 2nd team. I like that he sent Keyou home and told him to shape up.

We'll see what happens, but it's sure looking good to me.