SaintFanInATLHELL

It seems that you focus on the style as opposed to the substance. Yes the Saints running game was crappy last year. It has no always been though. The Saints have had a top 10 rushing attack in the last few years. Payton actually understands that the offense gets better when the running game is working.

As for Thomas and attempts, the answer is twofold. First and foremost, running back by committee with multiple personnel packages is a staple of Payton's offense. The objective is not to line up in the I formation and pound the defense. That's what's going to give you a 20 rush attempt per game rusher.

The second is more pointed. You quote 5 YPC for Thomas. Brees yards per attempt, not completions but attempts, has been 8.0 or better 4 times and never less than 7.0 in his entire tenure in New Orleans.

Another point is that Pierre's screen game (and it looks like the emerging one for Ingram) delivers a lot of impact even though they are not considered rushes.

I'm sorry you are frustrated. I am actually enjoying the discussion. But honestly you are asking for a complete reworking of the franchise when recent history shows that the current basic configuration of this franchise has achieved quite a bit of success in the last 7 years: 4 10+ win seasons, 2 NFC championship appearances, 4 playoff appearances, 1 Championship.

The defense is a concern. If we had a consistent defense that could get off the field, not give up the big play, stand tough in the red zone, and take the ball away, then we'd be a contender to run away with the trophy. We are not there.

My point will continue to be that while the 2009 Saints defense clearly isn't a championship defense. Yet, that defense won the championship.

Can we get there again?

SFIAH

Super Bowl Championships: New Orleans Saints:1, Carolina:0, Atlanta Chokers: STILL ZERO

Only Atlanta choked in an unchokable situation... Life is definitely good.