As the shortened off season quickly came to an end, experts wasted no time picking early Superbowl favorites, and ranking teams based basically off free agency and draft choice pick-ups. The Saints managed to make the top 5 on the list at number 4. Many question whether or not that this is the appropriate spot for the champs of two years ago, because of their disappointing 2010 campaign. It’s true that a lot is expected from the team that won the Superbowl the previous season, but, why? History has shown that repeating is close to impossible with exception to a few teams. The fact the Saints made it as far as they did with the injury bug plaguing just about everybody, was mostly astonishing. But, this year is a different story.
When you look compare the Saints roster for this season, and that of the ’09-’10 campaign, it’s easy to see why this team is better than that of the Superbowl team. The Saints probably had one of the best off seasons in the NFL, as far as pick-ups and draft picks go. The first round pick they chose was Cameron Jordan, from Cal. Cameron Jordan is a big, fast, and strong defensive end that will bolster the D-line that was woeful against the running game, giving up more than a hundred yards per game last season. In addition to Cam Jordan, the Saints traded up with the Patriots who had the 28th pick; they used that pick to add the hard runner, and Heisman trophy winner Mark Ingram from the crimson tide. As surprising as that pick was, it made sense as why management did what they did. Last season the Saints running game fell off the face of the planet because of constant injuries to Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush, early in the season. Although, the undrafted rookie out of Tiffin University, Chris Ivory, did a respectable job at picking up most of the load. But, even Ivory couldn’t maintain health for a whole season. The Saints run game this season should be much improved (being they stay healthy.) Management some how put together, what on paper seems to be one of the best quatrain of runners in the NFL: Mark Ingram, Chris Ivory, Pierre Thomas, and Reggie Bush’s replacement from San Diego, Darren Sproles. The Saints already dynamic offense just tougher. A lot, tougher. Management knew that giving Drew Brees a run game will give them a chance at winning the Lombardi trophy once again.
Other notable free agency signings were as followed: WR Lance Moore, DE Greg Romeus, LB Nate Bussy, DE Turk McBride, CB Fabian Washington, LB Martez Wilson, LB Clint Ingram, C Olin Krutez, DT Aubrayo Franklin, as well as some others.
On paper, the Saints easily defend their case as to being ranked 4 on the Power Rankings. The true test though, will come tonight in the Superdome, where the Saints take on the visiting 49ers squad. With the growing maturity of the team, and the amount of true leaders they posses, the Saints again should prove to us all why they should be considered, Superbowl contenders.
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