After posting 55 points in a 62-7 win over the Colts last week, the New Orleans Saints offense looks to continue their success against the struggling St. Louis Rams. The Rams, who many picked to win the NFC West, are reeling at 0-6. The Saints are coming off of the most lopsided victory in franchise history. All the variables are in play for another huge performance this week. Drew Brees fantasy owners are pinching themselves.
Pass Offense
Drew Brees has been absolutely incredible this season. Averaging 341 yards per game, Brees once again is proving that he is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. His task this week? A St. Louis pass defense that is surprisingly ranked 13th in the league, allowing 226.5 yards per game.
With a 0-6 record, one would expect all Rams statistical categories to be very poor. Why is the St. Louis pass defense halfway decent? The pass rush of DE Chris Long is a good place to start. The best player on the Rams defense, Long is the only true difference maker along the line. His ability to get a rush on the opposing quarterback allows for a below-average secondary to cover better than they normally would.
Thankfully, the Saints offensive line has done a good job this year of keeping Brees clean and off of the ground. Last week’s performance against the duo of Indianapolis DEs Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis is a testament to how well the unit is performing. Brees’ ability to deliver the ball quickly is a great antidote against an aggressive rush.
Run Offense
The Saints head into this week’s contest with questions at running back. Top rusher Mark Ingram was injured against the Colts with a bruised heel, and according to ESPN’s Pat Yasinkas, will be out for this Sunday’s contest. Chris Ivory is expected to make his 2011 debut in Ingram’s absence.
The Rams run defense has been atrocious this season, allowing an average of 183.8 yards per game on the ground, which is dead last in the league. Even with Ingram inactive, the Saints should be able to be successful running the ball against St. Louis. Ivory mirrors Ingram as a powerful, between-the-tackles runner. Look for Pierre Thomas to get more carries as Ivory gets more acquainted with the offense. Darren Sproles should be in line for more carries as well, as he has proven to the coaching staff that he is capable of being more than a 3rd down, pass catching option.
Matchup to Watch
Saints TE Jimmy Graham vs. Rams secondary. Graham has been a terror for opposing defensive coordinators this season. The Rams will try to cover him by using a combination of safeties and quicker, athletic linebackers. Whatever the matchup might be, Graham possesses the advantage almost everywhere he goes. Besides Brees, it can be argued that he is the Saints’ most important offensive player. Expect Graham to be once again dominant on Sunday.
