The Saints at Raiders game should provide some interesting contrast. For example:
Saints Brees vs Raiders ? – The New Orleans Saints have one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks. Drew Brees has been a godsend, spearheading the NFl’s best offense the last three years. The Oakland Raiders drafted Jamarcus Russel out of LSU and are still waiting for him to emerge as an elite NFL quarterback or even a starting NFL quarterback. While Brees has a lock on the Saints QB position, Russel will have a fight on his hands keeping Jeff Garcia off the field.
Saints Running Backs vs Raiders Running Backs – The New Orleans Saints can point to Reggie Bush as a running back but they aren’t really fooling anybody. Bush is a wide receiver who happens to line up behind the quarterback on some plays. The Oakland Raiders have been using Justin Fargas, a tough running back with a hell bent for leather style, but in 2009 look for Darren McFadden to play a larger role. McFadden suffered with injury his rookie year but if he’s healthy he can take it home from anywhere on the field. The Saints, aside from Reggie Bush the pseudo-runnung back, may have struck gold with a rapidly evolving Pierre Thomas and a revitalized Mike Bell.
Saints Colston vs Raiders Heyward Bey – This isn’t really fair. The Saints Marques Colston is a know quantity now and should resume his role as the favorite target of Drew Brees. Oakland’s Heyward-Bey is a rookie wide receiver who hasn’t shown anyone anything but speed. But we’re forgetting Javon Walker, who in reality may be looking at playing a reduced role if he doesn’t pick things up. Still, he’s a veteran, and could burst out of the gate.
Saints Defense vs Raiders Defense - Statistically, neither team has anything to boast about. Both need major improvement. For the Saints, that improvement needs to come in the pass rush and more importantly the secondary. For the Oakland Raiders, the secondary is competent, with a bright spot of Nnamdi Asomugha, but the defensive line needs some work.
Saints NFC South vs Raiders AFC West – Here’s where the Raiders have a distinct advantage. Only the San Diego Chargers appear to be a threat at this moment. The Broncos and Chiefs are both rebuilding, leaving some soft spots in the Raiders schedule. The Saints are facing one tough haul in the NFC South with the Panthers and Falcons looking playoff ready. Plus, New Orleans will have to play the Giants, Eagles, and Cowboys, along with the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins. It’s a killer schedule.
Saints need Backups vs Raiders Need Starters -With all this in mind, remember that the Raiders and Saints have two different golas in mind for this game. The Oakland Raiders need to find players to start and win football games. The Saints are largely settled on offensive starters and just don’t want anybody hurt. Defensively, they’ll be looking at the secondary, and spend the rest of their time finding players that can be contribute on special teams while developing for down the road.
