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METAIRIE, La. -- Rob Ryan stripped down his playbook last week as the New Orleans Saints' defense cut out all of their on-field checks and adjustments. And it worked great, as players said they were able to play faster and more decisive in a 20-9 victory against the Minnesota Vikings.

That can’t have been an easy choice for Ryan, a "film rat" who prides himself on being one of the NFL’s most sophisticated schemers. But he said Friday that it was the right choice for this team.

"I think here, in New Orleans, with the type of players we had (last year) and have, I think we do better when we have less checks," Ryan said. "Some teams I’ve had, we did fine, but it was all about the system. Here it’s all about the players. It’s not a check and balance. I think this is the way it is.

"When I was hired, I came into something special here. And I’m not going to screw it up. I’m going to work hard and make sure we get it right."

Rob Ryan: I’m not going to screw it up - New Orleans Saints Blog - ESPN

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