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Dennis Allen and Rob Ryan are Saints' defensive odd couple

METAIRIE, La. -- There's a certain yin-and-yang quality to the New Orleans Saints' defensive coaching staff now that senior assistant Dennis Allen has been paired with coordinator Rob Ryan.

Or maybe it's an "Odd Couple" quality.

Just about everyone asked about what Allen will bring back to New Orleans after four years away as the Denver Broncos' defensive coordinator and Oakland Raiders' head coach mentioned Allen's attention to detail or his calming influence.

As beloved as Ryan is by his players, he's rarely defined by either of those traits. Ryan is known more for his dynamic personality and mad scientist approach to his playbook.

"Coach Ryan, he is passion," said former Saints cornerback Jabari Greer, who played for both men at different times. "And that passion rubs off on his players. They want to play for him, believe in him, trust in what he's doing. He's a creative force, and he puts his players in great position.

"But as far as the details that it takes for a player to execute that certain assignment ... I believe Dennis Allen will do a great job of conveying exactly what Rob Ryan is looking for. [Allen] was extremely prepared, and he prepared us for every situation."

Safety Kenny Vaccaro, who has just begun working with Allen, gave a similar assessment.

Dennis Allen, Rob Ryan are New Orleans Saints' defensive odd couple - ESPN

"We may have lost the game, but you'll be hurting tomorrow." Doug Atkins