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.