Patriots: New Orleans Saints
The Patriots-Saints "Monday Night Football" game on ESPN was the second-most-watched cable program of all time in households and viewers, earning a 15.0 ranking, which represents 14,872,000 households (about 21,402,000 viewers). It was ESPN’s second-highest rating in the network’s 30-year history.
The game finished just shy of ESPN’s "Monday Night Football" telecast Oct. 5 featuring Brett Favre facing his former team (Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings), which set cable records for households (15,136,000) and viewers (21,839,000), based on an ESPN-record 15.3 rating.
Monday’s game delivered a combined 35.0 rating in Boston (13.1 on ESPN and 21.9 on WCVB-ABC), and a combined 66.7 rating in New Orleans (23.3 on ESPN and 43.4 on WDSU-NBC). The New Orleans rating is the highest combined local rating for "Monday Night Football" this year, surpassing the 63.9 in New Orleans for the Falcons-Saints game Nov. 2.
The game finished just shy of ESPN’s "Monday Night Football" telecast Oct. 5 featuring Brett Favre facing his former team (Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings), which set cable records for households (15,136,000) and viewers (21,839,000), based on an ESPN-record 15.3 rating.
Monday’s game delivered a combined 35.0 rating in Boston (13.1 on ESPN and 21.9 on WCVB-ABC), and a combined 66.7 rating in New Orleans (23.3 on ESPN and 43.4 on WDSU-NBC). The New Orleans rating is the highest combined local rating for "Monday Night Football" this year, surpassing the 63.9 in New Orleans for the Falcons-Saints game Nov. 2.
NEW ORLEANS -- Quick hits from the postgame locker rooms:
1. Almost every player, including Randy Moss, answered questions from reporters. It seemed as if the Patriots were embarrassed by their performance and were open to taking the hard questions.
2. Saints coach Sean Payton pointed to Mike McKenzie’s first-quarter interception as the turning point. The Patriots led 7-3 and were at the Saints’ 46, but after the pick New Orleans scored a touchdown to go ahead 10-7 and never looked back. “A pivotal play in the game,” Payton said.
3. Bill Belichick opened his press conference by saying that the Saints deserved credit. “They were obviously the better team tonight,” he said. He said they took advantage of “enormous mistakes,” the kind that teams can’t make and expect to win against a club of the Saints’ caliber.
4. Saints quarterback Drew Brees felt the offensive line was key to the team’s attack. “We were able to take some shots down the field. We had some big-time runs-after-the-catch by those wide receivers. It starts with the offensive line.”
5. Belichick on putting quarterback Brian Hoyer in the game with 5:26 remaining: “To give him some experience. We were down 21 points with five minutes to go.”
1. Almost every player, including Randy Moss, answered questions from reporters. It seemed as if the Patriots were embarrassed by their performance and were open to taking the hard questions.
2. Saints coach Sean Payton pointed to Mike McKenzie’s first-quarter interception as the turning point. The Patriots led 7-3 and were at the Saints’ 46, but after the pick New Orleans scored a touchdown to go ahead 10-7 and never looked back. “A pivotal play in the game,” Payton said.
3. Bill Belichick opened his press conference by saying that the Saints deserved credit. “They were obviously the better team tonight,” he said. He said they took advantage of “enormous mistakes,” the kind that teams can’t make and expect to win against a club of the Saints’ caliber.
4. Saints quarterback Drew Brees felt the offensive line was key to the team’s attack. “We were able to take some shots down the field. We had some big-time runs-after-the-catch by those wide receivers. It starts with the offensive line.”
5. Belichick on putting quarterback Brian Hoyer in the game with 5:26 remaining: “To give him some experience. We were down 21 points with five minutes to go.”
NEW ORLEANS -- Critical mistakes -- namely a Tom Brady interception that the Saints converted into a touchdown and a blown coverage on a 75-yard touchdown catch and run -- have put the Patriots in a tough spot.
The Saints lead 24-10 and have been the more consistent team, sometimes forcing the Patriots into their errors. They deserve credit for coming to play in a statement-type game.
The turning point of the first half was Brady’s interception, which came on the first play of the team’s second drive. The Patriots held a 7-3 lead and Wes Welker’s long punt return set them up in great position.
After pounding the ball with two tight ends on nine plays of their 14-play scoring drive, the Patriots came out in an empty set. Brady was moved out of the pocket and fired the pick to Mike McKenzie.
The tide turned from there.
Brady struggled to consistently find his rhythm, affected by the Saints’ pressure as the protection has broken down too often. The combination of the Saints’ tight coverage on Randy Moss and Welker helped the Saints win more snaps. Moss was held without a catch until 49 seconds remained in the half and appeared frustrated at times.
The Patriots’ pass-catchers aren’t getting separation, forcing Brady to work the ball into tight spots.
Defensively, the Patriots found themselves out of position, their fundamentals breaking down at various times. The Saints struck their desired balance on offense, which set up their lethal play-action game.
The Patriots get the ball to start the second half. They need a dramatic U-turn to have a chance in this game.
The Saints lead 24-10 and have been the more consistent team, sometimes forcing the Patriots into their errors. They deserve credit for coming to play in a statement-type game.
The turning point of the first half was Brady’s interception, which came on the first play of the team’s second drive. The Patriots held a 7-3 lead and Wes Welker’s long punt return set them up in great position.
After pounding the ball with two tight ends on nine plays of their 14-play scoring drive, the Patriots came out in an empty set. Brady was moved out of the pocket and fired the pick to Mike McKenzie.
The tide turned from there.
Brady struggled to consistently find his rhythm, affected by the Saints’ pressure as the protection has broken down too often. The combination of the Saints’ tight coverage on Randy Moss and Welker helped the Saints win more snaps. Moss was held without a catch until 49 seconds remained in the half and appeared frustrated at times.
The Patriots’ pass-catchers aren’t getting separation, forcing Brady to work the ball into tight spots.
Defensively, the Patriots found themselves out of position, their fundamentals breaking down at various times. The Saints struck their desired balance on offense, which set up their lethal play-action game.
The Patriots get the ball to start the second half. They need a dramatic U-turn to have a chance in this game.
Saints CB situation bears watching
November, 30, 2009
11/30/09
7:29
PM ET
By
Mike Reiss | ESPNBoston.com
The Saints are without starting cornerbacks Jabari Greer (groin) and Tracy Porter (knee), which is a major development against the Patriots' 1-2 combination of Randy Moss and Wes Welker.
Former Patriot Randall Gay and rookie Malcolm Jenkins are expected to start.
The Patriots figured to spread the field and test the Saints' depth at corner regardless, but this could lead them even more so in that direction.
Former Patriot Randall Gay and rookie Malcolm Jenkins are expected to start.
The Patriots figured to spread the field and test the Saints' depth at corner regardless, but this could lead them even more so in that direction.
Excitement is real in New Orleans
November, 30, 2009
11/30/09
6:09
PM ET
By
Mike Reiss | ESPNBoston.com
NEW ORLEANS –- What is the atmosphere like here in New Orleans as the Patriots prepare to face the Saints?
Troy Falterman, 37, helped us find out. A Louisiana native now living in Houston, he traveled home for Monday night’s game.
“I think everyone is extremely excited,” he said after eating lunch at Luke, one of the downtown hot spots. “Any time you have a chance to play the Patriots, who have been the face of the NFL for the last decade, it’s a measuring stick. The Saints are 10-0 and I think everyone in the city believes they have the right ingredients to win the Super Bowl. In playing the best, you have a chance to see what you have, and I think that’s what tonight is all about.”
Falterman touched on what the Saints mean to the city.
“Everything,” he said. “New Orleans is not a corporate city, so people put the Saints right behind family. That’s the high regard in which the team is held. The city, no doubt about it, will be on the ultimate high if they win. If they lose, you’ll see a real downer. The city really ebbs and flows with the Saints. People live and die with them. The passion is as good as anywhere else in the NFL.”
As for Falterman’s background with the team, he remembers being in grammar school and learning how to count by reciting the Saints’ jersey numbers.
“I knew number 8 was Archie Manning and 42 was Chuck Muncie, that’s just the way it was,” he said. “Ever since I was a little boy, we went to the Superdome. To me, football was the Saints. That’s the way you grew up and I think it’s that way for most in the city.
“I think you’ll see the passion the Saints fans have, and the love for the team. The city has its issues -- hurricanes and other things. But when the Saints play, it’s one city, no matter what. There will be all walks of life at the dome tonight, and there will be only one thing that matters -- the Saints getting a win.”
Troy Falterman, 37, helped us find out. A Louisiana native now living in Houston, he traveled home for Monday night’s game.
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Chris Forsberg/ESPNBoston.comSaints fan Troy Falterman put the importance of the team to the city of New Orleans in perspective: "People put the Saints right behind family."
Chris Forsberg/ESPNBoston.comSaints fan Troy Falterman put the importance of the team to the city of New Orleans in perspective: "People put the Saints right behind family."“I think everyone is extremely excited,” he said after eating lunch at Luke, one of the downtown hot spots. “Any time you have a chance to play the Patriots, who have been the face of the NFL for the last decade, it’s a measuring stick. The Saints are 10-0 and I think everyone in the city believes they have the right ingredients to win the Super Bowl. In playing the best, you have a chance to see what you have, and I think that’s what tonight is all about.”
Falterman touched on what the Saints mean to the city.
“Everything,” he said. “New Orleans is not a corporate city, so people put the Saints right behind family. That’s the high regard in which the team is held. The city, no doubt about it, will be on the ultimate high if they win. If they lose, you’ll see a real downer. The city really ebbs and flows with the Saints. People live and die with them. The passion is as good as anywhere else in the NFL.”
As for Falterman’s background with the team, he remembers being in grammar school and learning how to count by reciting the Saints’ jersey numbers.
“I knew number 8 was Archie Manning and 42 was Chuck Muncie, that’s just the way it was,” he said. “Ever since I was a little boy, we went to the Superdome. To me, football was the Saints. That’s the way you grew up and I think it’s that way for most in the city.
“I think you’ll see the passion the Saints fans have, and the love for the team. The city has its issues -- hurricanes and other things. But when the Saints play, it’s one city, no matter what. There will be all walks of life at the dome tonight, and there will be only one thing that matters -- the Saints getting a win.”
Super memories at Superdome
November, 30, 2009
11/30/09
5:26
PM ET
By
Chris Forsberg | ESPNBoston.com
NEW ORLEANS -- While the Patriots haven't visited the Superdome for a regular-season game against the Saints in more than a decade, there will be no shortage of nostalgia when New England steps onto the field this evening.
The Superdome played host to Super Bowl XXXVI, when the Patriots, 14-point underdogs to the St. Louis Rams and their Greatest Show on Turf offense, emerged with the first of three Super Bowl titles in four years with a stunning 20-17 triumph.
"Mr. [Robert] Kraft came and talked to the team [Wednesday] morning about that and he talked about the special memories of that place," said Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. "You never forget that day. That was pretty unbelievable for all of us. A lot of us ... you’re first chance to play in a Super Bowl and winning the Super Bowl, and, of course, the circumstances of that year with 9/11 happening -- and U2 performing at halftime – that was pretty unbelievable."
Coach Bill Belichick said it's likely the setting will bring back memories, but seeing the undefeated opponent across the field Monday will prevent the Patriots from making more than a quick jog down memory lane.
"I’m sure for a moment, there’s certainly a lot of fond memories for Super Bowl XXXVI there, but the Saints will bring it back to reality quickly," said Belichick. "They’re a really good football team and it’s nice to reflect, but really there’s so much in front of us in getting ready for the Saints, it’s a big job here. I think we’re going to have to turn our attention to that."
Only four players remain from the 2001 Super Bowl team in Brady, running back Kevin Faulk, and offensive linemen Stephen Neal and Matt Light. But Brady suggested that even the newest Patriots can appreciate the history in this building.
"We’ve had a lot of new guys come and go, but [the new players are] part of the tradition now," said Brady. "When you wear that uniform you kind of take on everything that this team has been a part of, whether you were here or whether you weren’t here. It’s a great environment, a historic place to play, and I think we’re all excited about getting down there."
The Patriots have beaten the Saints in all three meetings at the Superdome, the last on Oct. 4, 1998. And while this is New England's first visit since Super Bowl XXXVI, it should be noted that not all the memories inside this building are pleasant.
The Patriots were stomped by the Bears, 46-10, in Super Bowl XX on Jan. 26, 1986, and fell to the Green Bay Packers, 35-21, in Super Bowl XXXI on Jan. 26, 1997.
Belichick, who was the Patriots' assistant head coach under Bill Parcells during Super Bowl XXXI, isn't likely to spend much time thinking about Desmond Howard and Reggie White. Not when he's got Reggie Bush and Will Smith to contemplate Monday night.
The Superdome played host to Super Bowl XXXVI, when the Patriots, 14-point underdogs to the St. Louis Rams and their Greatest Show on Turf offense, emerged with the first of three Super Bowl titles in four years with a stunning 20-17 triumph.
"Mr. [Robert] Kraft came and talked to the team [Wednesday] morning about that and he talked about the special memories of that place," said Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. "You never forget that day. That was pretty unbelievable for all of us. A lot of us ... you’re first chance to play in a Super Bowl and winning the Super Bowl, and, of course, the circumstances of that year with 9/11 happening -- and U2 performing at halftime – that was pretty unbelievable."
Coach Bill Belichick said it's likely the setting will bring back memories, but seeing the undefeated opponent across the field Monday will prevent the Patriots from making more than a quick jog down memory lane.
"I’m sure for a moment, there’s certainly a lot of fond memories for Super Bowl XXXVI there, but the Saints will bring it back to reality quickly," said Belichick. "They’re a really good football team and it’s nice to reflect, but really there’s so much in front of us in getting ready for the Saints, it’s a big job here. I think we’re going to have to turn our attention to that."
Only four players remain from the 2001 Super Bowl team in Brady, running back Kevin Faulk, and offensive linemen Stephen Neal and Matt Light. But Brady suggested that even the newest Patriots can appreciate the history in this building.
"We’ve had a lot of new guys come and go, but [the new players are] part of the tradition now," said Brady. "When you wear that uniform you kind of take on everything that this team has been a part of, whether you were here or whether you weren’t here. It’s a great environment, a historic place to play, and I think we’re all excited about getting down there."
The Patriots have beaten the Saints in all three meetings at the Superdome, the last on Oct. 4, 1998. And while this is New England's first visit since Super Bowl XXXVI, it should be noted that not all the memories inside this building are pleasant.
The Patriots were stomped by the Bears, 46-10, in Super Bowl XX on Jan. 26, 1986, and fell to the Green Bay Packers, 35-21, in Super Bowl XXXI on Jan. 26, 1997.
Belichick, who was the Patriots' assistant head coach under Bill Parcells during Super Bowl XXXI, isn't likely to spend much time thinking about Desmond Howard and Reggie White. Not when he's got Reggie Bush and Will Smith to contemplate Monday night.
FOXBOROUGH -- The Patriots ruled veteran running back Fred Taylor out for Monday's game and listed 17 players as questionable, a group including offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer (head). Vollmer did not practice Friday or Saturday.
Players who are questionable have a 50-50 chance of suiting up for action.
For the Saints, starting cornerback Tracy Porter (knee) and receiver Lance Moore (ankle) are doubtful.
The Patriots' report:
OUT
RB Fred Taylor (ankle)
QUESTIONABLE
WR Sam Aiken (hip)
LB Eric Alexander (groin)
TE Chris Baker (shoulder)
OLB Tully Banta-Cain (groin)
NT Ron Brace (ankle)
S Pat Chung (head)
WR Julian Edelman (forearm)
DE Jarvis Green (knee)
OT Nick Kaczur (ankle)
C Dan Koppen (knee)
OT Matt Light (knee)
RB Sammy Morris (knee)
G Stephen Neal (head)
LB Rob Ninkovich (knee)
OT Sebastian Vollmer (head)
DE Ty Warren (ankle)
OLB Pierre Woods (groin)
PROBABLE
QB Tom Brady (right shoulder)
CB Shawn Springs (knee)
TE Benjamin Watson (knee)
For the Saints, in addition to Porter and Moore listed as doubtful, running back Reggie Bush (knee), cornerback Randall Gay (hamstring), center Jonathan Goodwin (ankle), cornerback Jabari Greer (groin), defensive end Bobby McCray (knee/back) and linebacker Jonathan Vilma (knee) are all questionable. Starting guard Carl Nicks (illness) is probable.
Pats were high on Smith in '04 draft
November, 28, 2009
11/28/09
2:54
PM ET
By
Mike Reiss | ESPNBoston.com
FOXBOROUGH, Mass., -- Holding the 21st selection in the 2004 draft, the Patriots watched the board unfold and were thrilled when defensive lineman Vince Wilfork was available.
Another player on their radar is one they'll see Monday night -- defensive end Will Smith, who went 18th overall to the Saints.
"He was certainly a guy we had a lot of interest in," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said. "He's a big guy who can run, rush the passer, pursue well, strong player at the point of attack, athletic, plays on his feet. He's got a group of skills, plays hard, been productive. I think he's been the player people thought he would be."
Smith's 8.5 sacks lead the Saints this season, and he most likely will be matched up against the Patriots' left tackle, whether it's Sebastian Vollmer, Matt Light or Mark LeVoir.
Thinking back to 2004, when Smith was coming out of Ohio State, Belichick didn't view him as an outside linebacker/defensive end type hybrid for the Patriots.
Belichick compared the situation to Julius Peppers, saying that while he could probably play outside linebacker, a team wouldn't want to drop him into coverage because it would take him away from doing what he does best -- rushing the passer.
Belichick was asked if it would be accurate that Smith was one of the few players he had in mind as a possibility for the Patriots in the first round of that 2004 draft.
"Yeah, sure," he said. "Any team I'm coaching, if you can get a good defensive lineman, you'd consider it. I don't care where it was, what the situation was, how many of them you might think you'd have. You really can't have too many of those guys if they're good."
Another player on their radar is one they'll see Monday night -- defensive end Will Smith, who went 18th overall to the Saints.
"He was certainly a guy we had a lot of interest in," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said. "He's a big guy who can run, rush the passer, pursue well, strong player at the point of attack, athletic, plays on his feet. He's got a group of skills, plays hard, been productive. I think he's been the player people thought he would be."
Smith's 8.5 sacks lead the Saints this season, and he most likely will be matched up against the Patriots' left tackle, whether it's Sebastian Vollmer, Matt Light or Mark LeVoir.
Thinking back to 2004, when Smith was coming out of Ohio State, Belichick didn't view him as an outside linebacker/defensive end type hybrid for the Patriots.
Belichick compared the situation to Julius Peppers, saying that while he could probably play outside linebacker, a team wouldn't want to drop him into coverage because it would take him away from doing what he does best -- rushing the passer.
Belichick was asked if it would be accurate that Smith was one of the few players he had in mind as a possibility for the Patriots in the first round of that 2004 draft.
"Yeah, sure," he said. "Any team I'm coaching, if you can get a good defensive lineman, you'd consider it. I don't care where it was, what the situation was, how many of them you might think you'd have. You really can't have too many of those guys if they're good."
A roundup of how folks at ESPN are picking Monday’s game between the New England Patriots and New Orleans Saints.
- ESPNBoston.com's Mike Reiss: Patriots 41, Saints 38. A game to remember regardless of who wins. Hope they're checking all the lightbulbs in the scoreboard.
- ESPNBoston.com's Chris Forsberg: Patriots 34, Saints 28. Facing fourth-and-2 late in the game, the Patriots punt the ball away and the defense comes up with the preserving interception to seal the win. New England will never be as insufferable as the '72 Dolphins, but the Patriots help to ensure their 16-0 record lives on for at least one more season.
- Bill Simmons: Picks the Patriots (+2) over the Saints.
- ESPN's experts: Four of nine pick the Patriots over the Saints.
- Hank Goldberg: Thinks it's a game that's nearly too close to call ... but he picks New Orleans (getting three points) over New England.
- Countdown Daily: Tedy Bruschi and Marcellus Wiley both predict a Patriots win. Wiley thinks Tom Brady will have a big game, while Bruschi says the Patriots won’t be shell shocked by the magnitude of the game.
- Sunday Countdown: Keyshawn Johnson and Cris Carter pick the Patriots, while Mike Ditka and Tom Jackson take the Saints.
- Madden simulation: Saints 38, Patriots 35. Simulation result has Drew Brees completing 25 of 39 passes for 282 yards and three TDs as the Saints hold off a late rally to stay undefeated.
- Make your picks for all of Sunday's games in this SportsNation feature or in our Pigskin Pick 'Em contest.
Homecoming for Faulk, Green
November, 25, 2009
11/25/09
12:36
PM ET
By
Chris Forsberg | ESPNBoston.com
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- For Kevin Faulk and Jarvis Green -- two Louisiana natives who played collegiality at Louisiana State -- Monday's matchup with the Saints isn't just another big game, it's a homecoming.
And one that's been a long time coming, no less.
The Patriots haven't played in New Orleans since their 20-17 triumph over the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI on Feb. 3, 2002. They haven't played the Saints since Nov. 20, 2005, a game played in Foxborough. The Patriots last met the Saints at the Superdome on Oct. 4, 1998.
Both Faulk (drafted the year after that last regular-season visit to New Orleans) and Green (drafted the year after the Super Bowl victory) expressed excitement in returning home, but admit their cell phones haven't stopped buzzing with family and friends looking for tickets.
"Whoever's doing the schedule, I must tell them thank you," Faulk said with a smile. "That's just a joke, that's all. No, that's something that goes on, we can't control it, so why complain about it?"
Sidelined after undergoing knee surgery in late October, Green said it would be nice to return to the field in his home state, but that he's not looking that far ahead yet.
"I've got to see how I practice first," said Green, who had a purple and yellow LSU sweatshirt hanging in his locker. "It would be good, but let's just see how things go. One day at a time."
While joking the Patriots' visit to the Big Easy happens to come the year the Saints are 10-0, both players said the team's success is great for the community, particularly as the area continues to rebound from Hurricane Katrina.
"It's good for the whole state, just to see them coming along as a team. The state has been looking for this for a while," said Faulk. "You can tell by the fans, the backing they have and the sold-out game. That's how fans feel about [the Saints]. They've always had good fans, they just didn't have enough to cheer about."
Added Green: "It's good after what they went through a few years ago. It's something special down there. Like anything else, the city supports each other. It's huge for the city, it keeps them stronger."
And one that's been a long time coming, no less.
The Patriots haven't played in New Orleans since their 20-17 triumph over the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI on Feb. 3, 2002. They haven't played the Saints since Nov. 20, 2005, a game played in Foxborough. The Patriots last met the Saints at the Superdome on Oct. 4, 1998.
Both Faulk (drafted the year after that last regular-season visit to New Orleans) and Green (drafted the year after the Super Bowl victory) expressed excitement in returning home, but admit their cell phones haven't stopped buzzing with family and friends looking for tickets.
"Whoever's doing the schedule, I must tell them thank you," Faulk said with a smile. "That's just a joke, that's all. No, that's something that goes on, we can't control it, so why complain about it?"
Sidelined after undergoing knee surgery in late October, Green said it would be nice to return to the field in his home state, but that he's not looking that far ahead yet.
"I've got to see how I practice first," said Green, who had a purple and yellow LSU sweatshirt hanging in his locker. "It would be good, but let's just see how things go. One day at a time."
While joking the Patriots' visit to the Big Easy happens to come the year the Saints are 10-0, both players said the team's success is great for the community, particularly as the area continues to rebound from Hurricane Katrina.
"It's good for the whole state, just to see them coming along as a team. The state has been looking for this for a while," said Faulk. "You can tell by the fans, the backing they have and the sold-out game. That's how fans feel about [the Saints]. They've always had good fans, they just didn't have enough to cheer about."
Added Green: "It's good after what they went through a few years ago. It's something special down there. Like anything else, the city supports each other. It's huge for the city, it keeps them stronger."
10 things to know about Saints
November, 25, 2009
11/25/09
8:23
AM ET
By
Mike Reiss | ESPNBoston.com
Getting familiar with the Patriots’ next opponent, the Saints, with 10 quick-hit thoughts:
1. They are 10-0. Home games have come against the Lions, Jets, Giants, Falcons and Panthers. Road games have been against the Eagles, Bills, Dolphins, Rams and Buccaneers.
2. Head coach Sean Payton is in his fourth year, and he calls the offensive plays. He previously coached on Bill Parcells’ staff in Dallas after stints with the Giants (1999-2002) and Eagles (1997-98).
3. Pete Carmichael Jr., who grew up in Medway, Mass., and graduated from Boston College, is the offensive coordinator. Gregg Williams is the defensive coordinator.
4. They have a league-high 29 takeaways, led by safety Darren Sharper’s seven interceptions.
5. On the flip side, they have lost 10 fumbles, with only one team losing more (Oakland, 12).
6. Quarterback Drew Brees is having an MVP-worthy season: 218 of 320 for 2,746 yards, with 22 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. His 68 percent completion rate would set a career high.
7. Pierre Thomas (105 carries, 584 yards), Mike Bell (115 carries, 514 yards) and Reggie Bush (55 carries, 277 yards) spearhead an impressive three-pronged running attack.
8. Marques Colston is the leading receiver (44 catches, 687 yards, 6 TDs), followed by tight end Jeremy Shockey (39 catches, 461 yards, 3 TDs).
9. Categories in which they lead the NFL include: points per game (36.9), total yards per game (420.5), total passing yards per game (266.2), percentage of opponents passes intercepted (20 INTs).
10. Injuries at cornerback are a primary concern, as starters Jabari Greer (groin) and Tracy Porter (knee) did not play last Sunday against Tampa, and top reserve Randall Gay left the game with what he said was a hamstring injury. They signed veteran cornerbacks Chris McAlister and Mike McKenzie over the last two weeks.
1. They are 10-0. Home games have come against the Lions, Jets, Giants, Falcons and Panthers. Road games have been against the Eagles, Bills, Dolphins, Rams and Buccaneers.
2. Head coach Sean Payton is in his fourth year, and he calls the offensive plays. He previously coached on Bill Parcells’ staff in Dallas after stints with the Giants (1999-2002) and Eagles (1997-98).
3. Pete Carmichael Jr., who grew up in Medway, Mass., and graduated from Boston College, is the offensive coordinator. Gregg Williams is the defensive coordinator.
4. They have a league-high 29 takeaways, led by safety Darren Sharper’s seven interceptions.
5. On the flip side, they have lost 10 fumbles, with only one team losing more (Oakland, 12).
6. Quarterback Drew Brees is having an MVP-worthy season: 218 of 320 for 2,746 yards, with 22 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. His 68 percent completion rate would set a career high.
7. Pierre Thomas (105 carries, 584 yards), Mike Bell (115 carries, 514 yards) and Reggie Bush (55 carries, 277 yards) spearhead an impressive three-pronged running attack.
8. Marques Colston is the leading receiver (44 catches, 687 yards, 6 TDs), followed by tight end Jeremy Shockey (39 catches, 461 yards, 3 TDs).
9. Categories in which they lead the NFL include: points per game (36.9), total yards per game (420.5), total passing yards per game (266.2), percentage of opponents passes intercepted (20 INTs).
10. Injuries at cornerback are a primary concern, as starters Jabari Greer (groin) and Tracy Porter (knee) did not play last Sunday against Tampa, and top reserve Randall Gay left the game with what he said was a hamstring injury. They signed veteran cornerbacks Chris McAlister and Mike McKenzie over the last two weeks.
Pees knows defense will have hands full
November, 24, 2009
11/24/09
8:33
PM ET
By Tom Lakin | ESPNBoston.com
In his weekly conference call Tuesday, New England Patriots defensive coordinator Dean Pees acknowledged that his unit will have its hands full on Monday night with the high-octane Saints attack.
“It’s a very prolific offense,” Pees said. “They have so many weapons. The guys catch the ball, they’ve got good tight ends, they have a number of backs besides [Reggie] Bush. It’s just a very, very balanced offense.”
Pees lauded quarterback Drew Brees in leading the undefeated Saints and admitted that he presents challenges for a defensive coordinator.
“I don’t see a lot of teams pressuring him,” Pees said. “He’s a very, very smart and intelligent quarterback. He knows where to go with the ball. He does a really good job with the cadence and command of the offense. He does all those things.”
It helps, Pees said, that Brees is surrounded by other talented players and backed by a knowledgeable coaching staff.
“They do a good job with the whole scheme,” he said. “[Saints head coach Sean Payton] does a good job of calling the plays and doing formations and keeping everybody off balance.
“It’s the scheme, it’s Drew putting people in the right spot, getting rid of the ball on time, receivers getting open. It’s never one thing. It’s not just all the offensive line nor is it all just the skill players. They’ve coordinated the whole thing together and that’s why they’re playing so well on offense.”
But when asked how this New Orleans offense stacks up against that of the 10-0 Indianapolis Colts, Pees was reluctant to draw comparisons.
“I think they have their own identity,” Pees said of the Saints. “I think they’re both very, very excellent offenses. One is a multiple-formation, shift, move-around team and the other one barely moves and it’s just as effective. So I don’t think you can compare them. But I think they’re both just very, very good offenses and both able to move the ball. Both have very, very smart quarterbacks that know where to take the ball.”
Ultimately, Pees said that the Patriots must look forward if they want to stop the Saints, and can’t expect to repeat last week’s five-turnover performance against Mark Sanchez and the Jets.
“Last week was last week,” Pees said. “The Jets are just an entirely different type of team than the Saints and we’ll just have to see what direction we need to go in to try to be successful.”
Nick Caserio, New England’s director of player personnel, held his weekly conference call after Pees. Here are a few highlights:
On the work ethic of linebacker Tully Banta-Cain: “Going back to February or March, he had a real strong offseason and he continued to work on his pass rush and developed some of those skills and I think it’s really translated over into the season. So I think it’s really a credit to Tully and what he’s done. He’s done everything that we’ve asked him to do and he’s responded favorably to the coaching, whether that’s on the field or off the field.”
On the versatility of offensive tackle Mark LeVoir: “When we looked at Mark last preseason, he had played both right and left tackle for the Rams. I think the thing with Mark is having that versatility. There’s value to your club so that, in the event that the left tackle goes down you can plug him in there or [vice versa]. He gives us flexibility; we’ve even used him offensively at tight end. Whatever he’s been called upon to do, he’s gone in there and performed.”
On dealing with injuries late in the season: “From our perspective, what you try to do is just to manage the team as best as you possibly can under the constraints that you’re given. Look at the Saints. They’ve had a few injuries come up at the cornerback position, what with Leigh Torrence being placed on IR, they signed [Chris] McAlister last week, then went ahead and signed [Mike] McKenzie again. I think you just have to manage the club and manage the team as best you can and deal with the injuries as they happen.”
“It’s a very prolific offense,” Pees said. “They have so many weapons. The guys catch the ball, they’ve got good tight ends, they have a number of backs besides [Reggie] Bush. It’s just a very, very balanced offense.”
Pees lauded quarterback Drew Brees in leading the undefeated Saints and admitted that he presents challenges for a defensive coordinator.
“I don’t see a lot of teams pressuring him,” Pees said. “He’s a very, very smart and intelligent quarterback. He knows where to go with the ball. He does a really good job with the cadence and command of the offense. He does all those things.”
It helps, Pees said, that Brees is surrounded by other talented players and backed by a knowledgeable coaching staff.
“They do a good job with the whole scheme,” he said. “[Saints head coach Sean Payton] does a good job of calling the plays and doing formations and keeping everybody off balance.
“It’s the scheme, it’s Drew putting people in the right spot, getting rid of the ball on time, receivers getting open. It’s never one thing. It’s not just all the offensive line nor is it all just the skill players. They’ve coordinated the whole thing together and that’s why they’re playing so well on offense.”
But when asked how this New Orleans offense stacks up against that of the 10-0 Indianapolis Colts, Pees was reluctant to draw comparisons.
“I think they have their own identity,” Pees said of the Saints. “I think they’re both very, very excellent offenses. One is a multiple-formation, shift, move-around team and the other one barely moves and it’s just as effective. So I don’t think you can compare them. But I think they’re both just very, very good offenses and both able to move the ball. Both have very, very smart quarterbacks that know where to take the ball.”
Ultimately, Pees said that the Patriots must look forward if they want to stop the Saints, and can’t expect to repeat last week’s five-turnover performance against Mark Sanchez and the Jets.
“Last week was last week,” Pees said. “The Jets are just an entirely different type of team than the Saints and we’ll just have to see what direction we need to go in to try to be successful.”
Nick Caserio, New England’s director of player personnel, held his weekly conference call after Pees. Here are a few highlights:
On the work ethic of linebacker Tully Banta-Cain: “Going back to February or March, he had a real strong offseason and he continued to work on his pass rush and developed some of those skills and I think it’s really translated over into the season. So I think it’s really a credit to Tully and what he’s done. He’s done everything that we’ve asked him to do and he’s responded favorably to the coaching, whether that’s on the field or off the field.”
On the versatility of offensive tackle Mark LeVoir: “When we looked at Mark last preseason, he had played both right and left tackle for the Rams. I think the thing with Mark is having that versatility. There’s value to your club so that, in the event that the left tackle goes down you can plug him in there or [vice versa]. He gives us flexibility; we’ve even used him offensively at tight end. Whatever he’s been called upon to do, he’s gone in there and performed.”
On dealing with injuries late in the season: “From our perspective, what you try to do is just to manage the team as best as you possibly can under the constraints that you’re given. Look at the Saints. They’ve had a few injuries come up at the cornerback position, what with Leigh Torrence being placed on IR, they signed [Chris] McAlister last week, then went ahead and signed [Mike] McKenzie again. I think you just have to manage the club and manage the team as best you can and deal with the injuries as they happen.”
In anticipation of the Patriots' visit to New Orleans on Monday, a look at where the Saints rank in key statistical categories through 11 weeks of the season:
Points scored
1st (36.9 per game)
Points allowed
Tied for 13th (20.4 per game)
Third-down offense
3rd (61 of 130, 46.9 percent)
Third-down defense
7th (48 of 139, 34.5 percent)
Turnover margin
3rd (Plus-10, 29 takeaways, 19 giveaways)
29 takeaways are an NFL high
Red zone offense (based on TD percentage)
4th (32 of 49, 65.3 percent)
Red zone defense (based on TD percentage)
5th (14 of 33, 42.4 percent)
Points scored
1st (36.9 per game)
Points allowed
Tied for 13th (20.4 per game)
Third-down offense
3rd (61 of 130, 46.9 percent)
Third-down defense
7th (48 of 139, 34.5 percent)
Turnover margin
3rd (Plus-10, 29 takeaways, 19 giveaways)
29 takeaways are an NFL high
Red zone offense (based on TD percentage)
4th (32 of 49, 65.3 percent)
Red zone defense (based on TD percentage)
5th (14 of 33, 42.4 percent)
Brees: 'Doesn't get any bigger than this'
November, 23, 2009
11/23/09
10:23
PM ET
By
Mike Reiss | ESPNBoston.com
Saints quarterback Drew Brees was interviewed by ESPN’s Chris Berman during halftime of the "Monday Night Football" broadcast. Next Monday’s game against the Patriots was a central part of the discussion.
"It doesn’t get any bigger or better than this," Brees said.
Brees was asked what he learned from watching the Patriots go through their undefeated regular season in 2007.
"The main thing from watching them two years ago and feeling it now is that you get everybody’s best game -- no matter who you’re playing, what their record is. You have somewhat of a bull's-eye on your chest, everybody is gunning for you," he said. "You know each week, it doesn't get any easier. It only gets harder."
Brees was asked what it will take to match the Patriots and come out on top. Brees answered that it will take the Saints' best game.
"We know what type of team they are, what type of team they’ve been for the last decade," he said. "They're a dynasty. Obviously, that's one of the organizations that we try to emulate. That's who we are trying to be, that contender year in and year out. Obviously, these opportunities to play a team like the Patriots, you just have to take advantage of them."
"It doesn’t get any bigger or better than this," Brees said.
Brees was asked what he learned from watching the Patriots go through their undefeated regular season in 2007.
"The main thing from watching them two years ago and feeling it now is that you get everybody’s best game -- no matter who you’re playing, what their record is. You have somewhat of a bull's-eye on your chest, everybody is gunning for you," he said. "You know each week, it doesn't get any easier. It only gets harder."
Brees was asked what it will take to match the Patriots and come out on top. Brees answered that it will take the Saints' best game.
"We know what type of team they are, what type of team they’ve been for the last decade," he said. "They're a dynasty. Obviously, that's one of the organizations that we try to emulate. That's who we are trying to be, that contender year in and year out. Obviously, these opportunities to play a team like the Patriots, you just have to take advantage of them."
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ABOUT THIS BLOG
Mike Reiss
Mike Reiss first started covering the Patriots in 1997 with the team's official newspaper, Patriots Football Weekly, before moving on to the MetroWest Daily News in his hometown of Framingham. From 2005 to 2009, he covered the Patriots for The Boston Globe, while also writing on the NFL. He started his popular Patriots blog in 2004. Send any questions or comments for Mike to his mailbag. Follow him on Twitter here.
Chris Forsberg
Chris Forsberg has been reporting on the Boston sports scene since 1999. With his video camera in tow, Forsberg covered everything from Massachusetts high school sports to Boston's pro sports teams. Follow him on Twitter.
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