With a pedestrian win in the books for the Saints, it’s time to take a look at three players who excelled and three who struggled. So let’s get to your week 4 Saints and Sinners…
Saints
On Sunday, 80 was the number of the beast
Jimmy Graham – He was a beast this game, finishing with 10 catches for 132 yards (a long of 59) and a score. Graham was the most targeted receiver in the game and it’s not a shock why. His height, speed and athleticism is a match up nightmare for opposing coaches. Expect more games like this in the future.
Darren Sproles – He was the Saints leading rusher and averaged 10.7 yards per carry against the Jags. Toss in another 5 receptions for 56 yards (11.2 average) and he had a great day overall. Throughout the first quarter of the season, Sproles has become a central component of the offense, and this is evidenced by his 7 pass targets (good for second on the team).
Patrick Robinson – The much maligned cornerback pulled down his first career interception and deflected two passes. It was very nice to see young corner play well after struggling in the first part of the season. Good for you, Patrick Robinson!
Sinners
Patrick Robinson – I know I have him in the Saints section, but did you see his interception return? Ewwww.
Scott Shanle – Shanle is not on here because he was burned in coverage a couple of times. He was assigned the unenviable task of covering Maurice Jones-Drew and that’ll happen to most people. What lands him on the Sinners list were the defensive holding and facemask penalties on two third down plays to keep Jacksonville drives going.
Drew Brees – This is slightly a result of how high expectations are for Brees. He didn’t have the best game but he wasn’t terrible either. The two interceptions weren’t good but they didn’t end up really harming the team–though the one at the end of the half could have if the defense allowed a touchdown. He still got his yards and completed 70% of his passes but it seemed as if he was forcing his throws a little too much.
