GumboBC

This is a BIG game in more ways than one. Sure, the winner will probably go to the playoffs. But it goes way beyond that.

In the Big Easy, Haslett and Brooks have become easy targets for fans and media alike. And this game has placed both Haslett and Brooks under the microscope.

What makes this game even bigger is Jake Delhomme is the opposing QB.

Word is that this matchup has lit a fire under Brooks. And it's said that Brooks has looked extremely sharp in practice.

Brooks has also been running the ball more as of late. In fact, if not for Brooks coverting a 4th and 14 play with his legs, the Saints wouldn't even be in position of having a shot at the playoffs.

In my mind, this could be the game that brings the fans to Haslett's and Brooks' side.

It would prove the Saints can win in December. It would also show Brooks could win a big game. And it would send Delhomme home for the playoffs while the Saints advance.

That's what most of the talk will be about. However, if the Saints do beat the Panthers, it might just be because of the defense.

We've waited for years to see some significant signs of improvement from a defense that consistently been at the bottom of the NFL.

For 3 weeks this has looked like a totally different defense and could be the difference in the game.

saintswhodi

Except the game is in January and the Saints are 3-1 this December already having shown they can win in that month. But I understood what you were saying. lol

Euphoria

I think this Brooks/Jake debate is over-rated... its something we do here but where do you see the debate raging on in the national media... its snot.