Does it get any better than that picture from Ben Watson right there? The Saints scored a season high 31 points tonight and it could have been more without two missed long field goals. Give the offensive line for giving up only 1 sack despite not being able to get anything going all game in the running department. The opening drive of the game went for 12 plays and 80 yards for a masterful 7 points. The offense then went dormant for a long time and the failure to run was largely responsible. Sadly the injury to Andrus Peat on that opening drive seemed to be a major impact as Tony Hills went from the street to starting left tackle in one quarter. The second half was a different story, though, as the offense was able to move the football and get points. A nice night to be a Saints fan. Below are the grades:
Drew Brees: A+ (2.87)
No turnovers was obviously the key but Brees was pretty close to flawless. He got rid of the ball with exceptional speed, never giving the Falcons a real chance to hit him. His accuracy was scary, particularly when he was on the run and his feet were not set. He spread the ball around and moved in the pocket with his trademark excellence. He finished 30-39 for 312 yards, 1 touchdown and no turnovers. He also had 2 runs for 2 yards.
Mark Ingram: B- (2.56)
He had nowhere to go for much of the game but getting in the end zone twice was big. This offense has had red zone trouble and his ability to get the job done in short yardage situation was big. Blame the o-line for a lot of the poor runs but I thought he could have been more decisive too. He had 20 carries for just 46 yards and 2 scores. He also had 3 catches for 10 yards. Without the scores his grade is much worse.
Khiry Robinson: B- (2.50)
I thought he was more explosive and physical than Ingram in this one. He finished with 7 carries for 23 yards, but it would be 6 for 31 if you didn’t count the 8 yard loss on the run where the Saints’ o-line completely caved in. He also had 2 catches for 24 yards.
C. J. Spiller: C (2.33)
Little contributions here and there but still too quiet. 3 runs for 10 yards and 4 catches for 17 yards. Not productive enough.
Austin Johnson: B- (2.20)
He blocked well when he was in on short yardage situations but he wasn’t used often. Still, a positive influence when he played. Showed some things on special teams, too.
Brandin Cooks: B- (2.50)
He had a “drop” which was really a non catch on a low ball that hit the turf. He needs to come up with that ball. Finished with 4 catches for 41 yards but a critical 26 yarder on a beautiful touch pass by Brees where he got behind the defense on a big 3rd down conversion.
Willie Snead: B (3.06)
So physical after the catch, such good hands and becoming more reliable. 4 catches for 55 yards and in a lot of crucial situations he came up big. He continues to be the most productive player for this offense.
Brandon Coleman: D (1.84)
Lone target was a red zone pass where he can’t come up with it. Even with Marques Colston missing he’s a complete afterthought.
Benjamin Watson: A+ (2.72)
Jimmy who? Watson finished with 10 catches for 127 yards and a touchdown on 12 targets. He had a deep ball inside the 5 that he should have caught, too, but the throw was a little high. The game of his career, without question. Graham’s most receptions in a game is 10 as well. He showed good routes, an ability to get open, fantastic hands, and he also made a number of grabs in traffic. An unforgettable night by a true professional.
Josh Hill: B- (1.89)
He started off so fast with two big catches on the opening drive, I thought he was going to have a huge night. He finished with 3 catches for 38 yards and a semi drop. Way better production that we’re used to seeing this season, though.
Michael Hoomanawanaui: C- (1.34)
He was the H-back and typical lead blocker on a number of running plays. Obviously that didn’t work out so well.
Andrus Peat: B- (2.61)
I almost gave him an incomplete since he only played a drive but he looked so good in that short time on the field. Hopefully the injury isn’t serious. He seems ready to me a starter to me if he can return healthy. I don’t think it’s an accident that the offense looked the best when he was in there. His loss was felt acutely for a while in this game.
Senio Kelemete: C- (1.75)
Gave up the lone sack and gave up a significant amount of pressure. Couldn’t get much going in the run game. If Peat ends up being ok health wise and Terron Armstead returns, left guards remains the one area of big concern up front. McGlynn might be worth a try.
Max Unger: B (2.67)
Pass protection was excellent and he was physical up front. He got crossed up with Kelemete a couple times in blitz pick up but I figure that’s likely on the less experienced player. A good day, I just wish I could see him be more dominant. He snapped the ball well. And when you look at was a disaster the Falcons’ backup center was, you can’t take consistent snaps for granted.
Jahri Evans: A- (3.00)
The opening drive in particular was a masterpiece performance from Evans, but his return was much needed throughout. He was physical, the few runs that were successful start with a nice block and finished with his play to the whistle. His pass protection was excellent. Any edge pressure, or even left interior pressure Brees faced, he could always step in the center or right of the pocket and be completely clean. His return from injury was felt in a very positive way.
Zach Strief: C+ (1.72)
He was beat around the edge from time to time but this showed what a clean pocket will do. Brees can step up and Strief doesn’t look nearly as culpable. A decent showing but the run blocking was mediocre.
Tony Hills: C+ (2.33)
He had a false start and was clearly roasted a handful of times. He got Robinson blown up on an edge rush and received a lot of help. But for being on the street and coming in on short notice to play left tackle, he could have been a lot worse. He was better than what we’ve seen from Bryce Harris in the past. Not bad considering.
My offensive player of the game: Benjamin Watson
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