Re: I like our chances against Denver
 

This week will define our year. It's a should win and a must win. Denver has major qb problems and we are getting some defensive leaders back.

Re: I like our chances against Denver
 

No doubt. Expect Sean Payton to show multiple tight end sets & "chippers". No way in hell he'll allow Zach to go against Von 1 on 1 on a lot of occasions. Josh Hill has been solid vs SAM's.

Re: I like our chances against Denver
 

I think the Saint offense has put it together. Best WR trio in the NFL. A solid RB duo. Line looking very solid and Fleener starting to show consistency. The D is looking better and getting Breaux and Rankins back will help even more. Plus Aqib Talib being out clinches this game for us.

Re: I like our chances against Denver
 

Of the 8 games the Saints has left, Denver is the game that has the least actual impact on the playoff race. So while I agree it is a should win, if it's a must win then your expectation must be the Saints will go 8-0 down the stretch.

Here's my breakdown:

1. The 4 remaining division games (Carolina, TB (2), Atlanta) are must wins.

2. Detroit is crucial because currently they are ahead of the Saints in the wild card race. A head-to-head win goes a long way coupled with the division must-wins above.

3. The three remaining games: Denver, LA, and Arizona are games that the Saints will likely be favored. Each win here is helpful, but losses in this group are less damaging than losses in the other group.

Essentially 5 wins from groups 1 and 2 coupled with any wins from group 3 puts the Saints in good position.

A loss to Detroit can be offset by additional wins from group 3.

Every loss from group 1 is devastating. Each of those 4 games are must wins. With even a single loss out of that group pretty much means the Saints would need to win all 4 games from groups 2 and 3 to remain competitive.

I believe expecting to go 8-0 down the stretch is unrealistic. There are simply not 8 must win games down the stretch. Better to think of 4 must win games (4 division games) coupled with every other win from the other groups that we can get.

5 wins with 2 division losses and a loss in the NFL West may not cut it. 5 wins with all 5 from groups 1 and 2 probably will.

SFIAH

Re: I like our chances against Denver
 

For what it's worth, Rotoworld is reporting that Talib will be out for the Saints game.

Denver 7's Troy Renck reports Aqib Talib (back) will be sidelined through the Broncos' Week 11 bye.
This is actually good news considering Talib had to visit a specialist last week for a second opinion. If this report is accurate, it means he will be able to play after some rest and rehab. While Talib's presence would have been welcome this week against the Saints, his long-term availability is more important for the Broncos. Nov 7 - 9:18 AM
Source: Troy Renck on Twitter