blackangold

Saints:

–A recurring theme for the Saints has been the poor play of their linebackers, and that continued against Houston as both David Hawthorne and rookie Stephone Anthony graded below -2.0. Both players struggled in coverage, with Hawthorne whiffing on a short whip route at 3:39 of the first quarter while Anthony was targeted (and beaten) on consecutive corner routes late in the first half.

–Offseason pickup center Max Unger logged only 11 snaps but graded positively in both pass protection and run blocking for the third time this preseason.

–Though he went undrafted, rookie D-lineman Ashaad Mabry was one of CFF’s highest-graded run defenders in this year’s class, and that was evident in this game, as he put forth an impressive display against the Texans’ interior line. His compiled a team-high six defensive stops, including at 10:19 of the third quarter.

Top 5 graded players:

1. DL Ashaad Mabry (+3.7)

2. DL Tyeler Davison (+2.5)

3. DE Kasim Edebali (+2.2)

4. OL Sean Hickey (+1.8)

5. FB Toben Opurum (+1.6)

https://www.profootballfocus.com/blo...texans-saints/

Interesting bit about the LBs struggling. Really hope Ellerbe is able to come back and stay healthy, he'll be a big difference maker if he plays.

Rugby Saint II

Three out of five top grades were on the defensive line and yet we didn't get any push.......this doesn't bode well for the defense. Especially with the poor showing from the LB'ers.

hagan714

4. OL Sean Hickey (+1.8)

jeanpierre

I know, I know - you've been bullish on him since the draft...

You know I did get a couple right this draft after my mancrush on Vic Beasley was dashed by the Falcons (which I also feared/predicted)...

Sometimes sun shines on a dog's tail...LOL

jeanpierre

But am real excited for that grade on Mabry...

Jenkins could use some tips on how to quickly disengage blocks and shut down the "0" and "1" gaps...

Because neither would learn that from our poor excuse of a D-line coach...

foreverfan

Preseason...

hagan714

1. DL Ashaad Mabry (+3.7)

from were? Texas-San Antonio? the football juggernaut of the deep and i mean the deep south.

great big surprise with a great story line to boot. hard not to root for this kid and his family

jeanpierre

He was a top recruit that left Oklahoma State after one week...

Texas-San Antonio was a start up football program when he elected to re-engage in football...

Kid grew up homeless with his two brothers and bad-luck, sickly Mom...

Really hoping he hits for both him and his family and for our defensive line...

He's on the right track and he should make the squad...

Cruize

Can play guard and tackle.

RaginCajun83

hold up, someone actually showed up to play against the Texans. Must of happened after McCown put me to sleep