Saints defense improves against Bengals

[Comment Below]

By Christopher Gordy

As the New Orleans Saints prepare for their last preseason game against the Miami Dolphins this week, the team will have to trim their roster to 53 before heading into the regular season. In their third preseason game on Saturday, the Saints defeated the Bengals in Cincinnati, 13-0.

Just one week after giving up 405 total yards of offense to the Houston Texans, the Saints’ defense responded by holding Cincinnati to only 10 first downs and 165 total yards of offense.

Tracy Porter got the start at cornerback over the dismal Jason David and performed well covering receivers and even forcing a fumble. Kevin Kaesviharn and Bobby McCray each had 1.5 sacks, with Antwan Lake also getting a sack. Cornerback Mike McKenzie also returned to the starting lineup and contributed immediately, almost coming up with a diving interception in the first quarter.

Though one could argue that it is just preseason, there is no denying that the Saints defense vastly improved over one week. And with Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh out of the lineup, the Saints’ secondary didn’t have much to go against. But after allowing 31 points a week earlier, a shutout was exactly what this defense needed to gain confidence.

Drew Brees was already in mid-season form, playing the majority of the first half, throwing 14-for-22 for 199 yards and a touchdown. Deuce McAllister saw some more action this week, while Pierre Thomas and Aaron Stecker led the rushing attack for the Saints. Reggie Bush left the game early with a charlie horse, while Marques Colston left early with bruised ribs, neither injury is expected to be serious.

Lance Moore and Robert Meachem were the highlights of the receiving corps. Moore had four catches for 79 yards, while Meachem finished with four catches for 71 yards. Meachem’s highlight was when he connected on a 54-yard pass from Drew Brees.

The only concern at this point in the preseason is the fact that the Saints struggled to score touchdowns again this week. Brees and the starting offense showed that they have little trouble moving the ball down the field, but once again, they struggled to plug it into the end zone.

Payton and the offense must work together to find the end zone and not have to settle for field goals. One weapon that is expected to come to the lineup this week is tight end Jeremy Shockey. Shockey was set to start against the Bengals, but Coach Payton held him out at the last second as a precaution. Shockey may give the Saints offense that extra spark to convert third downs and in the red zone.

So as the Saints make their roster cuts this week, fans may be disappointed to hear some names not making the cut when the season begins. Several players I expect not to make the 53-man final roster are wide receiver Skyler Green, wide receiver Lance Moore, running back Aaron Stecker and cornerback Aaron Glenn. Two players I expect to make the roster that should not are wide receiver Devery “Drops the Ball” Henderson and cornerback Jason “Burnt Toast” David.

But no matter who makes the team, I believe Coach Payton and his coaching staff know what they are doing and I will stand behind whatever decision they make. But I still think they should cut Jason David.

Originally Published: Issue 702 - August 27, 2008

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