This Texans vs Saints game should be a fun time for me. I’m the kind of Saints fan that gets warmed up slowly. I’m also the kind of Saints fan that’s been through 30 years of waiting so my enthusiasm is always tempered with a huge dose of reality. So here’s what I’m going to be looking for when the Texans and Saints kick off:
Saints Secondary vs Texans Passing Offense – This a major sticking point for the Saints success. The Bengals game didn’t cure my concerns either. While the defense overall looked better, New Orleans got burned on some long plays. Our Achille’s heel of the past two seasons. Now we’ll see a Saints secondary vs Texans passing game that should be another test. Jason David is gone, so we’ll see what the Saints coaches believe is a stronger lineup.
Saints Linebackers vs Texans Rushing – This is another point on the defense that I see lacking. Bringinging in Vilma was an excellent move. Fujita is also a solid starter. But the Saints lack that killer linebacker feared around the league. And our depth is suspect.
Saints Offense vs Texans Defense – While it looks like the passing game will once again be overpowering, a team destined for the Super Bowl should be able to run. Again, I saw no eveidence of this in the Bengals game. Hamilton got the bulk of the carries. I hope this indicates that Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell have already proven themselves and the Saints coaches don’t need to see anymore. For the sake of my own comfort level, I’d like to see Thomas or Bell start against the Texans and gain some decent chunks of yardage. Seeing Jeremy Shockey continue and improve on his rapport with Drew Brees would be nice.
Saints Special Teams – Find a backup for Reggie Bush. Undoubtedly, Bush will be the punt returner. But he’s been hurt multiple games the last few seasons so we need a reliable guy there. On kickoffs, I like Lance Moore but realize he could be a starter as a receiver so that leaves maybe Skyler Green, whom I’m hoping will make the squad.
Hopefully, when this Texans vs Saints game is all over, I’ll be feeling better about some things.
