Vikings @ Saints: Making the Grade

Let's take a look at how the Saints graded out following their most recent performance against the Vikings. 

Quarterback B

This was actually a pretty good game from Drew minus the two interceptions. However, it's sub-par by Drew Brees standards. His receivers didn't help him too much either, dropping a few balls. If he continues to throw the ball at this pace his arm won't last much longer. This now makes three straight seasons in which he is either first or second in the league in total pass attempts.

Wide Receiver C

Be honest. Did you ever think that Devery would look so good at this point in the season? Reggie was pretty effective catching balls as well and Billy Miller had a great game (ignoring the missed block on the Brees sack). We saw a scary flashback of the drops though including some by Robert Meachem and ever reliable Lance Moore. Quite a few false start penalties also drops them down a grade.

Running Back D

What running game? I didn't really see a running game so I couldn't tell you how good it looked. Judging by the above numbers it looks pretty pitiful.

Offensive Line C

As far as the running game is concerned, see above. That accounts for most of their poor grade. They also had difficulty giving Drew time.

Defensive Line A

This wasn't a six sack game like last week but these guys played well. The Saints are thinner at the DT position then they'd like to be but Brian Young stepped it up. They get the A for their part in holding Adrian Peterson to only 32 yards. I wouldn't have believed it if I didn't see it with my own eyes.  

Linebackers A

Another A because of their part in keeping Adrian Peterson inneffective. Also, Vilma was a beast. Check out those numbers. One of the few positives you may take from this game. Shanle added 4 tackles. 

Secondary D

I might be being a bit harsh on this one. Gus Frerotte didn't put up Drew Brees-like numbers but it just felt like he was picking us apart. Perhaps it was the fact that the secondary just shut down on the most crucial of plays. Kevin Kaesviharn's penalty is still too fresh in my mind. 

Special Teams C

This is bittersweet. Reggie Bush and the blocks that set him free obviously get an A+ but Gramatica gets a big fat F. That washes out to a C.