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5. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

This is a coin flip for me between the Saints and New York Giants. I think both teams are in the same boat - capable of being as good as anyone in the NFL at times, but too inconsistent. I give the Saints the edge, though, because the Saints have done more to improve this offseason.

Take this prediction with a grain of salt, because I overrated the Saints last year, predicting an 11-5 record despite the bounty fallout. But I just can't shake how outstanding their offense was in 2011. Arguably the best passing attack in NFL history. And most of those pieces are still in place, especially with a re-energized Payton back in charge (though I do wonder how they'll hold up without Jermon Bushrod at left tackle).

Of course the defense is a concern. And I don't think it will be as good as it was in 2009. But I do think the Saints' defense can get back to what it was in 2011 - and that was almost good enough to win another Super Bowl.

Read more: NFC power rankings: New Orleans Saints will be back in playoff mix in 2013 | NOLA.com

alleycat_126

Nice to hear, but without W's these Power rankings mean squat!!!

xan

I fail students for stuff this stupid.

TheOak

You can be as good as you want to be unless you cant, then you are not, and won't be.

Jamessr

The head lines should read...
"Power Rankings... when there is nothing else to talk about"

Danno

Enjoyed the article. In fact it was a great read. One of the better off-season articles I've read so far. Good job Tripplett.

And you guys are correct, it means nothing right now.

It means about as much as pre-draft discussions on which players the Saints may like or dislike.

It means about as much as free-agency discussions about which players signed where and which teams look improved and which look like they downgraded.

It means about as much as discussions on whether or not Rob Ryan is going to improve this defense with the 3-4 or not.

It means about as much as discussions on who's the better RB between Ivory and Ingram.

It is definitely more entertaining than the elenty-billion friggin mock drafts posted that will be dead wrong.

Halo

SIGN ME UP FOR SEASON TICKETS, I'M IN BABY!

Also cannot wait for the year 2000 when I can fly to the Dome in my personal flying machine!!!

("look out there whipper-snapper, no speeding in the skyways" says the NOPD cop.)

Luda34

I hate power ranking

FinSaint

Awesome! The power ranking gods are on our side!

SloMotion

These rankings are "for the birds" ... seems like they overrate the Falcons, Seahawks and Eagles every time. Just an observation, .