New England Patriots at New Orleans Saints: Game Two Preview and Prediction
By Hal Bent
HOW THE PATRIOTS COULD LOSE:
Despite the injuries, the New Orleans offense is still explosive and will take advantage of the defense not playing with discipline. quarterback Drew Brees will probably break every passing record of Brett Favre before he hangs up his cleats. Despite a lack of healthy blockers in front of him on Monday night, Brees still threw for 291 yards and had a 104.7 passer rating.
Rookie running back Alvin Kamara had just 18 yards rushing in his debut but his shiftiness and explosiveness stood out on the game tape. Camara had four receptions for 20 yards and fellow running back Mark Ingram added another 54 yards through the air. If need be, the Saints can also pound the ball with future Hall of Fame running back Adrian Peterson.
New England is fortunate to catch the Saints with Willie Snead suspended, But there are still other weapons in New Orleans. Playing on the fast track at home, the Saints have impressive young wide receiver Michael Thomas and speedster Tommylee Lewis who had a 52-yard reception on Monday night. At tight end former Indianapolis Colt Coby Fleener re-established himself in the passing game with five catches for 54 yards and a touchdown.
The defense struggled for New Orleans on Monday night, however, they have invested a lot in their defense and the talent is better than what showed on the field. Safety Kenny Vaccaro headlines the secondary and first round draft pick Marshon Lattimore oozes talent. Defensive end Cameron Jordan had the only sack for the Saints and he can dial-up pressure at any time against anyone. Impressive young defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins showed he should be able to help against the run very soon.
The Saints did not look great on Monday night but neither did their opponent on their opening game. Do not sleep on Drew Brees ever. The Saints are at home, have improved their defense, is still explosive on offense and will put up a fight on Sunday.