The Saints winning season in 2017 was only their second in the last six seasons and this writer does not think a guide in guessing what the future will bring. New Orleans sports writers are beginning to express their views for next year but so far just a repeat of what they did in the past. In a Times Picayune article of January 15 Larry Holder reported Brees said, "I really feel like we're really building something . A window of time here, a window where we can really make a run at it." Brees has made similar statements during the past six years and it never happened.
This writer's thoughts are different than the sports world talk. The Saints were an improved team but lacked a consistent defensive effort, especially against the good teams. Their defense was AWOL in the first half against the Vikings and of course the last 25 seconds in that game was fatal. New Orleans sports writers overrated the defense. The Saints are much improved at running back but still lack balance in their play calling and Payton's arrogance is not helpful. And although they had a winning season, they failed to finish strong again losing 4 of their last 8 games.
The Saints defensive co-ordinator's ability to get the job done is still unsettled in this writers mind and I do not believe time is on his side. Drew Brees is on his way out and his personal records do not help the team win as a team. His poor performance against the Vikings in the first half will be repeated in the future. As of this writing, my judgement on the Saints for next season will be little progress from where they finished this year.
This commentary written by Joe Lorio
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