If you were wondering what happened to the 2009 version of the New Orleans Saints through 5 games this season, it appears they were waiting in Tampa. The big play offense and playmaking defense were in full effect, with the Saints coming out on top 31-6. It was a very solid showing overall, one that should give all Saints fans reason for optimism as the season continues. Next week we host the lousy Cleveland Browns, so it’s more than reasonable to assume we’ll have a nice shot at 5-2. Not only did this win vault the Saints past the Buccaneers in the standings, but the Eagles did us a favor by bouncing the Falcons, too, so we’re now tied for first place in the NFC South at 4-2 with the Falcons owning the tiebreaker. Below are my bullets on the game:
— The offensive line was dominant beyond words. Arguably more dominant of a performance by them than any game last season. They obviously got sick of talk that they weren’t performing.
— Chris Ivory (pictured) had a breakout game, rushing for 158 yards on just 15 carries. Honestly, the offensive line blocked so well than most 80 year olds could have rushed for 100 yards, but nonetheless it was fantastic to see a performance like that from the young back. The Saints have struck gold with this player, and he’s filling in with a masterful performance in the absence of both Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas.
— The Saints ran for 212 yards as a team today. Get out of town.
— Tampa only had success when they threw at Leigh Torrence. Any other attempt at a play, run or pass, went nowhere.
— The Saints run defense is playing lights out right now. Tampa had just 42 yards on the ground at 2.3 yards per carry. Oustanding stuff.
— Robert Meachem is back in the gameplan, and all of a sudden the Saints’ offense is making more plays. No coincidence if you ask me.
— Malcolm Jenkins gave the Buccaneers 30 yards on one play. I’m not sure how he avoided an ejection, but those 6 points can largely be attributed to his lack of poise.
— Garrett Hartley just sucks right now.
— I was surprised by the amount of reps Julius Jones saw, but the Saints did a good job of mixing it up with their three backs. He performed well, especially based on how new he is to the playbook.
— I can’t stand Kellen Winslow. Always running his mouth. It was great to see him get knocked around so many times over the course of the game.
That’s all I got. Stay tuned for the player grades!
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