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Three Performances of Note—New Orleans Saints

A Defensive Scapegoat

If there is one player to blame for the defensive failures more than others, it’s Patrick Robinson (-3.7). When the Broncos needed a big play, it came with Demaryius Thomas at receiver and Robinson attempting to defend him. In the first quarter, Thomas got separation from Robinson on a post route that led to a 41-yard gain. In the second, Robinson pushed Thomas within 5 yards, but Thomas ran right by to make a 34-yard catch. In the third quarter, Robinson held Thomas further than 5 yards and was called for it, but Thomas was still able to break free causing Robinson to fall and the Broncos’ offense to gain 26 more yards. All three drives that these plays occurred on led to touchdowns. From that point on, the Saints used Johnny Patrick at right cornerback more than Robinson.

Why There Wasn’t a Shootout

The Saints weren’t attempting much in the run game, and from the beginning put the ball in Drew Brees’ (-1.5) hands. However, eight drives ended up in Thomas Morstead (+4.3) punts; the most since the last regular season game of 2009 when the Saints had nothing to play for. One reason for the ineffectiveness on offense was drops; six times Brees passes were dropped — the most in a game since 2008. The other reason is Brees wasn’t able to get the ball down the field fast enough. He attempted eight passes where the ball was in the air for 16 or more yards, but only connected on one of those passes. We are used to seeing Brees throwing more accurately on mid-deep level throws than he did in this game. The lack of consistency in the pass games ended far too many drives.

Manning’s Clean Jersey

For far too long, the Saints have been unable to provide much of a pass rush. Starting defensive ends Junior Galette and Will Smith had zero pressures. In fact the the only player with more than one was Jonathan Vilma at two hurries, and Martez Wilson was the only player to hit Manning. When Manning was under pressure in this game he completed 50% of his passes compared to 79.2% when not under pressure. The same old issue for a Saints team desperately searching for pass rush.

Profootball Focus

CharityMike

This about sums up everything. What else is there to say?

Rugby Saint II

Time for a cold one!

st thomas

i 1 millionth agree to all. robinson sits because , get this he was tired. give him a pacifier. he got burnt every play. he looked scrimpy out there.