But this is still a team that, with the right breaks and good health, could easily win the NFC South. A quarterback, good lines on both sides of the ball and good-enough receiving weapons make New Orleans a threat every Sunday. But this team has to get off the roller coaster. The Saints started with four losses, followed by four wins, and ended the season with two wins followed by two losses. By the way, Drew Brees threw for 4,423 yards and 28 touchdowns last year ... and no one thought he played that well. That guy is one heck of a quarterback.
I'll tell you this fellow Saints Fans I'm happy the Saints are ranked middle of the pack, humbling? yes, motivating? yes
Yea I agree that it should make us hungry and it should take the bulls-eye somwhat off of our chest. But I still would like to see us ranked a little better.
Nothing motivates like everyone thinking you just average. I love it!!!
If Drew had an off year I can't wait for him to get "back on track". I'm okay with 4500 yds and 34 td's especially if we have 2000 rushing yards from our top 3 backs.
Injuries will be the key. We stay healthy then we will be in the playoffs making the push towards the super bowl. We get people hurt like last year then it will come down to week 17 again.
8. New Orleans Saints (7-9) - Previously #11 5/4/08: I gave out two A+'s in my 2008 NFL Draft Grades, and the Saints earned one of them. They've completely rebuilt their defense, save for the free safety and outside linebacker positions, and promising offensive rookies like Carl Nicks and Adrian Arrington might be able to contribute right away. Looking at New Orleans' schedule, 11 or 12 wins is very possible.
4/16/08: Of all the teams that didn't make the playoffs, the Saints might have the best chance at winning their division. With Carolina declining and Atlanta rebuilding, the only obstacle in New Orleans' way is Tampa Bay. The Saints, who finished the year on a 7-5 run, bolstered their defense with the additions of end Bobby McCray, middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma and cornerback Randall Gay. If they can find a quality cornerback, nose tackle and outside linebacker in the draft, they'll be set to give the Buccaneers a run for their money.
I'll tell you this fellow Saints Fans I'm happy the Saints are ranked middle of the pack, humbling? yes, motivating? yes
I think King made this prediction assuming that we are struck with the same bad luck that struck us last year (injuries, etc.). I can't blame him for being so negative, but I expect we will be a more healthy team this year, and we are much improved from last year's team as well. We should easily make the playoffs this year, and possibly go all the way.
