BreesFN9

Well with all the changes going on in and around the NFC, And more still comming, Now seems like a good time to take a peak at this year's TEST! The SCHEDULE!! I've been looking at this list of 05 opponents since it came out, And man I thought it was a tough schedule before! With all the additions the NFC side has made, It looks like EVERY one on the Saints schedule have really bulked up their lineups. There are so many knowlegable people on this board that kept the FA's Updated, that I don't need to get into details of who acquired who. In the past few years we have seen The Saints self destruct to end their playoff destiny, wether it be LATE in the season or early. the bottom line is in each of the last 3 seasons, The playoffs were there for the taking and we managed to let a spot slip away? Maybe last year we deserved it, But looking at the NFC standings, did anyone really play well? Eagles and falcons aside. A few years back we beat TB the eventual SB champs...TWICE and still managed to lose to sub par teams to lose yet another Playoff spot? This year I think will be the Ultimate test towards the Playoffs. Being so close in the past with some might say, a favorable schedule, This year looks to be the toughest one in a while. Maybe this is the Year we can earn not only a PLAYOFF spot...But some respect around the NFL. Imagine taking that impressive road record and winning in, MINN,GB, St.L,NYJ and Knocking off the Defending SB Champions..In NE! That's how you earn some respect. This team seems to thrive on being the underdogs. They win when NO one excpects them to win. Looking at the schedule , There are a lot of games on it that people will excpect us to lose? Seems like a HUGE opportunity. I know it's early and there is lot to be done, But I'm just excited about a good chance for this team to prove to the fans, And the NFL that they are better then a 500. team.

LKelley67

the schedules have usually weighted the divisional games toward the end of the season. i hope that continues. if the football gods are angry ya could see the dome boys trying to adjust to playing conditions in new jersey, foxboro, and green bay in december.

there is a chance for every team to turn it around like san diego did last year. it is the design of parity in the nfl. for this hot \'n cold crew that has plodded along 9-7, 7-9, 8-8, 8-8 it should be a make or break year. 5-11 and 11-5 are not very far apart in today\'s football world. hopefully there will be a deal made with the state before, if it ends up being a break year.

BreesFN9

I agree on all fronts. That\'s what scares and intrigues me at the same time. Either a Dismal 5-11 or an Awesome 11-5. They say it\'s a thin line Between LOVE and HATE and I think that will be tested for all Saints Fans this year relating this team!