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Determination to run against Falcons was clear

Numbers don’t lie. They just don’t always tell the entire truth.

So, as pedestrian as they may have appeared to be for the Saints' running game in New Orleans’ 23-17 victory over Atlanta on Sunday in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in the season opener, they didn’t quite measure the full meaning.

The Saints totaled 78 yards on 29 rushing attempts – 76 on 27 tries when quarterback Drew Brees’ two kneel-downs are subtracted. That’s 2.8 yards per carry, numbers that include Pierre Thomas’ quietly effective 43 yards on nine carries.

But a deeper delve is necessary.

Twenty-nine rushing attempts represents a put-your-money-where-your-mouth-is total for Saints Coach Sean Payton and his staff, who have said the Saints want to have more offensive balance this season.

Last year New Orleans had 29 or more rushing attempts just twice, 28 or more three times. The Saints won all three of those games, including – coincidentally – a 29-rush attempt game against the Falcons in Game 9, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

“It’s the coaching staff saying that we’re going to run it,” center Brian de la Puente said. “The balance will only help our passing game.

“I think as a unit, (the offensive line) needs to take pride in that and say that the onus is on us. We like the stress and the pressure of the run game hinging on us. We’ll take it and run with it.”

And run, and run, and run.

Read more: John DeShazier: Sticking with the run game pays off for New Orleans Saints

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Everyone is entitled to be stupid, but some abuse the privilege.

All little common sense goes a long way.