Today is the Greatest, Day I've Ever Known: 5 Things to Watch Tonight During Bengals @ Saints

by Saintsational on Aug 14, 2009 6:00 AM CDT Comment 59 comments

Good morning Who Dat Nation!

You can obviously tell by my Smashing Pumpkins inspired title that I am in a good mood. That's because my iTouch started working again last night after not being able to turn it on for months. I just decided to plug it into my computer while watching Big Brother 11 and poof, it starting working again. Turns out it just wasn't charged. So now I can continue my quest to become the ultimate gangster in iMob (friend code - 184868913). The return of my iTouch is wonderful news also because it's what I use to take notes during Saints games and I was starting to get worried about alternate plans for tonight. It's truly serendipitous and you really need to understand how wonderful this turn of events actually is.

Which leads me to the second cause of my excitement...Saints football is back! Sure it's only pre-season and there isn't much meaning behind the game but it's the entire experience that is so wonderful. After being away for eight months I'm finally going to walk the hallowed halls of the Super Dome again. Plus, I've got new season tickets this year that are a significant upgrade over my last pair, so I'm even more excited to check out the new view I'm going to have at all Saints games in the foreseeable future.

In my new seats and with my iTouch in hand I will finally get a chance to check out this years squad in game action. Most fans may deride these early matchups because the second and third teams get most of the playing time but that doesn't mean there isn't still plenty to watch. Here are a few of the things I will be paying particular attention to tonight. I think you should, too.

Defensive Scheme

After watching Gary Gibbs and his fairly bland defensive scheme for years, I think it's going to be just plain weird to watch Williams utilize a bunch of his many new defensive looks, possibly including a 3-4. Weird! For the Saints to have a sucessful season, we know the overall improvement of the defense will be the deciding factor but Rome wasn't built in a day. I don't need to see lots of sacks, interceptions or big hits to be convinced that this defense is improved. It might be nice but it would mean nothing in the way of long-term success. I do, however, want to see players being in the right place at the right time, getting in position to make a play, taking better angles and making better tackles. I think that will prove most important and truly be the best barometer of things to come. The speed, energy and intensity of the entire unit will also be something to definitely keep an eye on. That's all we've been hearing for the last two weeks. Now prove it.

Secondary Debut

This unit has gotten an extreme makeover this off-season and with so many intriguing story lines, these guys should be interesting to watch at every level. Once the laughing stock of the team, now it's a group that might be called...dare I say...deep. Saints fans have four new players - Darren Sharper, Jabari Greer, Pierson Prioleau and Malcolm Jenkins (maybe) - to watch tonight, all of whom can make immediate and significant contributions. Tracy Porter is being held out of the game tonight but Jason David, Randall Gay and Leigh Torrence are also in the mix at cornerback. At safety, Chris Reis has started making a name for himself and Usama Young's transition to the position will certainly be interesting. Don't get caught looking in the backfield when these guys are on the field.

Running Backs

Like the revamped secondary, this is a crowded race with Mike Bell, Lynell Hamilton, P.J. Hill and Herb Donaldson all vying for one, maybe two, spots. Payton may have a time sharing plan in mind but getting into a rhythm could be difficult for these players who, regardless, will have limited time to shine. Ball security could also become a factor. They won't be doing themselves any favors by putting the ball on the ground. Last but not least, make sure to perk up if the offense faces any 3rd or 4th down plays with only inches to go.

A Replacement for Shanle

It sounds harsh but it's the truth. Most fans would agree they'd like to get better play at the weakside linebacker position this season. For the last two years Scott Shanle has outlasted whatever competition was brought in to attempt and replace him. This year Jonathan Casillas and Jo-Lonn Dunbar are two young talents with a lot of promise. The chances of earning a starting role may be slim for them but it will certainly be fun to watch just in case. Anthony Waters is penciled in on the strong side but he may also be in that number if he can prove himself worthy.

Quarterback Competition

I honestly don't care that much about the competition between Mark Brunell and Joey Harrington but for those of you who do, you'll definitely want to see how each of them performs during there time in the game. My money is on Brunell and I think we'll see just how much further along he is compared to Harrington. Joey will have to look really special to earn a spot directly behind Drew.

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I'm excited to watch

Garret Hartley. Last year he was perfect! That’s something we really need. If I remember right, we lost at least one game on Gramatica’s foot. Remember how good Gramatica was at first. We even started calling him automatica Gramatica. Let’s hope Hartley can stay consistent. I can’t believe only 11 and a half more hours till we get to see our boys in action. Can I get a Who Dat!!!

by BlknGldSoulja on Aug 14, 2009 7:35 AM CDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs

don't forget about watching

our new deep snapper on FGs and punts

and Morstead v. Pakulak on punts

"Look, I'm not a -- -- -- -- savior." - Gregg Williams

by HansDat on Aug 14, 2009 5:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think Grant and Smith shouldn't start

nothing against them, but the guys who need to start the first 4 games need to get solidified with the 1st team defense and the new players on it. Why get some guys in the groove just to sit them?? Not sure what they’ll do, but to me Grant and Smith should come in as subs and play some second team also.

by Philinwood on Aug 14, 2009 8:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

I am most anxious to see the defensive line competition this month, and it makes more sense to give your inevitable starters in September the most first team reps anyway. I want to know who gets Grant’s spot for the first four games!

by FuSoYa on Aug 14, 2009 8:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed x2

Though, I can honestly say there’s nothing I’m looking forward to more than that magnificent inflatable entrance tunnel. Say, what do you guys think about having a half dozen or so pansy-ass male cheerleaders run out waving Saints flags, just to keep things fresh? I was thinking a letter on each flag to spell out SAINTS. S … A … heck, I don’t want to spoil it. Also, what about a silly dog mascot riding a motorcycle? 0o0oh, and some fireworks, too! I’ve never seen pre-game introductions handled quite in that manner. The entertainment possibilities using JUST THOSE FOUR FACTORS ALONE seem endless to me.

"You'll have sloppy balls. You have to find a way to get a grip on it." -Drew Brees

by coldpizza on Aug 14, 2009 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed x3

I’d like to see McCray, Spicer or Hargrove start. They’ll need to roll out a D-line that is in sync with one another in week 1. Surely, they’re planning on this if not in this game but the three remaining games at least. Even though it would be stupid to just look past the Lions in week 1, I’m still mostly thinking about the next game at Philly. Although, after watching the poor offensive showing of the Eagles offense against the Pats yesterday, I’m not as worried anymore. Their O-line had a lot of problems with pass protection. I’m sure they’ll be better by week 2, though. Even with poor pass protection, McNabb is still dangerous.

"He has got a good ol' boy sense of humor, but he has also got a good ol' boy sense of kick you in the ass, too,"--Gregg Williams describing Bill Johnson. The D WILL ROCK THIS YEAR!

by satchmo26 on Aug 14, 2009 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Jeff Charleston

Dude has got some serious curls going on:

He had his impressive moments last year as well. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him get considerable playing time during the first 4 weeks.

"He has got a good ol' boy sense of humor, but he has also got a good ol' boy sense of kick you in the ass, too,"--Gregg Williams describing Bill Johnson. The D WILL ROCK THIS YEAR!

by satchmo26 on Aug 14, 2009 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sucks that we didn't get vick

i thot he would have been a good saint.

by xen-cuts on Aug 14, 2009 8:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Bless the Eagles

Thank goodness we have the right decision makers in place. We don’t need that distraction. We’re on the right path now. WHO DAT!!!

by Ponysaints on Aug 14, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

BAH!

I would have had to turn the TV off ever time he came on the field.

by MT_always on Aug 14, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

is there a way i can view the game from CA? i don’t have direct tv… any online streams?

by nanvinnie on Aug 14, 2009 9:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'll be on media blackout until I can watch the game after recording the re-broadcast on NFL network @ 7am est Saturday

"Look, I'm not a -- -- -- -- savior." - Gregg Williams

by HansDat on Aug 14, 2009 5:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can even comment from my bathroom

With my itouch!!

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by Saintsational on Aug 14, 2009 9:25 AM CDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs

I love your Saints reports and comments, Dave....

but that’s some reportin’ I wouldn’t be interested in. I don’t need to know if you use the Charmin two-ply extra comfort TP or not. :-)

"He has got a good ol' boy sense of humor, but he has also got a good ol' boy sense of kick you in the ass, too,"--Gregg Williams describing Bill Johnson. The D WILL ROCK THIS YEAR!

by satchmo26 on Aug 14, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

don't mixup your wiping hand with your commenting hand, ok?

"Look, I'm not a -- -- -- -- savior." - Gregg Williams

by HansDat on Aug 14, 2009 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs

http://www.atdhe.net/8429/watch-cincinnati-bengals-vs-new-orleans-saints

or wait till 7 AM EST Saturday on NFL Network

by Norml912 on Aug 14, 2009 9:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

sweet! thanks!

by nanvinnie on Aug 14, 2009 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I would like to see

who gets the call after Bell as well as how man coverage goes in the secondary

by Norml912 on Aug 14, 2009 9:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah give me some PJ Hill

He’s got some reputation to live up to.

And I'll probably feel a whole lot better
When you're gone.

by stujo4 on Aug 14, 2009 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Please Do Not

Allow those Bunguls fan’s to chant “Who Dey!”. Its WHO DAT!

I am interested to see Jason David. I can’t believe I am saying this but he could be a diamond in the rough in that defensive backfield this year. I am sorry, I am crazy. I am not thinking straight this morning.

by WhoDatPHaltnMD on Aug 14, 2009 9:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It sickens me, BUT

I am kind of anxious to see J.D. myself. He can play underneath and hits like a train.

It's better to die like a lion, than to live like a pussy

by #23fan on Aug 14, 2009 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Where the hell have you been!?!?!?!

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by Saintsational on Aug 14, 2009 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dave

Would you believe me if I said I’ve been working way too much lately?

It's better to die like a lion, than to live like a pussy

by #23fan on Aug 14, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yes

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by Saintsational on Aug 14, 2009 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Man you are gullible!!

Oh I am sooooo ready for some SAINTS football

It's better to die like a lion, than to live like a pussy

by #23fan on Aug 14, 2009 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ha

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by Saintsational on Aug 14, 2009 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Moore is out this game as well

would like to see who steps up in WR. I am looking at one person specifically, yes you Robert.

by Norml912 on Aug 14, 2009 9:55 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I’m more interested in seeing which of the lesser known WRs are going to step up. One should definitely make the final roster. Possibly two. Included in that mix:

Adrian Arrington
Skyler Green
Rod Harper
Courtney Roby
Matthew Simon
Paris Warren
D’Juan Woods

One would think that either Green or Roby have the inside track based on kickoff returns, but maybe one of these other guys will make a big play on offense or on special teams and catch everyone’s eye. Also, if the third or fourth HB factors in as KR, then that might not be as prevalent a criterium.

"You'll have sloppy balls. You have to find a way to get a grip on it." -Drew Brees

by coldpizza on Aug 14, 2009 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hopefully two.

Anxious to see Arrington play. Haven’t heard much regarding him since last year. Appeared to be off to good start before injuries.

Hot Boudin, Cold Cous Cous, Comon Tigers Poosh Poosh Poosh!

by Barrylsu5 on Aug 14, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree with Green and Roby having an edge

did you watch AA run in the videos he looked pretty gimpy to me and hamstrings are finicky injuries

by Norml912 on Aug 14, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A typical Saints season as described by Smashing Pumpkins song titles.

.
Offseason: The Beginning is the End is the Beginning
Preseason: Today (is the Greatest, Day I’ve Ever Known)
Week 1: The Age of Innocence
Week 2: (Come On) Let’s Go!
Week 3: Beautiful
Week 4: Love
Week 5: Perfect
Week 6: Sweet Sweet
Week 7: Daydream
Week 8: Disarm
Week 9: Shame
Week 10: Blue Skies Bring Tears
Week 11: Frail and Bedazzled
Week 12: Crestfallen
Week 13: Behold! The Night Mare
Week 14: Infinite Sadness
Week 15: F&%* You (An Ode to No One)
Week 16: Apathy’s Last Kiss
Offseason: The End is the Beginning is the End

by Monkey Poop Battle on Aug 14, 2009 10:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Honestly

thanks for stopping before you got to Zwan.

"You'll have sloppy balls. You have to find a way to get a grip on it." -Drew Brees

by coldpizza on Aug 14, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Settle Down

If I had, I’m pretty sure the offseason would have been “Endless Summer”

by Monkey Poop Battle on Aug 14, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Reminds me of a haiku I once read:

Fleetwood Mac concert
High upon a mountaintop
Landslide brought it down

"You'll have sloppy balls. You have to find a way to get a grip on it." -Drew Brees

by coldpizza on Aug 14, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Wake me up when preseason ends"

Summer has come and passed
A Saints fan can never rest
wake me up when preseason ends

since the playoffs come to pass
seven months have gone so fast
wake me up when preseason ends

here comes the Saints again
storming to the dome
drenched in my pain again
it feels like coming home

as my memory rests
but never forgets what I lost
wake me up when preseason ends

by Ditka'sGhost on Aug 14, 2009 12:42 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs

Oh man I think the original is just so incredibly stupid but the altered lyrics are GREAT.

by FriarBob on Aug 14, 2009 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Envy

I would love to be in the dome tonight. I envy all you guys who are going. I will be interested to see how our defensive line begins to jell.

A saint in Panther country

by carolinasaintsfan on Aug 14, 2009 12:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

A Carolina Saints fan?

You’re a pilgrim in an unholy land, my friend. I wish I could be in the dome tonight myself. Out here in New Mexico, I’m mostly surrounded by those darn Cowboys fans. Some out here have suddenly taken an interest in the Cardinals, after last year.

"He has got a good ol' boy sense of humor, but he has also got a good ol' boy sense of kick you in the ass, too,"--Gregg Williams describing Bill Johnson. The D WILL ROCK THIS YEAR!

by satchmo26 on Aug 14, 2009 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm in DeadSkin Country

I hate that I can’t catch any Saints games up here. And its hilarious how everyone in the DC are thinking that the Skins are gonna do something this year. You have a quarterback that has no reason to try anymore. A 100 million dollar man that is probably gonna go down with in 5 weeks of the season. And a whole bunch of other overpaid players that haven’t learned how to play as a team.

Everytime I bring up the Saints people up here scoff and laugh @ me. They laughed at the Cardinals last year too and look where they ended up… The Superbowl. They lost but they got there none the less.

Get ready to FEEL DAT BREES!!!

by born in areacode 318 on Aug 14, 2009 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Welcome to CSC!!!

Wanna say something? Sign up! It's free!

by Saintsational on Aug 14, 2009 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

me too

Virginia Beach

by asaint on Aug 14, 2009 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

There are at least three of us now!

MtnExile is in Asheville, I’m in Greensboro, what part of the Old North State are you in?

We make it to the big show, I’m throwin’ down a HUGE SB party, and I ‘spect y’all to attend!

…sorry I vanished folks, been out of town (music stuff – trade shows, gigs), but I’m back now and ready to GO!!

I see that I got caught out in the whole “sign Mike Vick” thread about his record with us – don’t care, just glad he’s not in black & gold. (someone tried to insinuate I’m a newcomer, but I went to home games at Tulane Stadium).

Man, I’m excited about tonight, wish it were gonna be on TV, but I’ll make do with the link that Norml912 put up – hopefully it’ll work, and I’ve got a 21" Mac at home for the game! :-)

by GSO Saints Fan on Aug 14, 2009 3:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

we got another musician?

Wanna say something? Sign up! It's free!

by Saintsational on Aug 14, 2009 4:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

...who, me?

;-)

Yeah, bassist in da house.

Did 18 months at the 544 Club on Bourbon back in the late 90’s for my home ‘cred, toured with Tito Puente, Jr. for a few years on & off, blah…blah…blah…now I’m a shill for these guys:

www.roscoeguitars.com

(Shill = general manager, aka cat herder & mole whacker)

by GSO Saints Fan on Aug 14, 2009 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cool!

Too bad we don’t live closer together. We could record a duo arrangement of “When the Saints Go Marchin’ In.” I’ve been meaning to sit down and record a solo guitar, Joe Pass-style, arrangement of that and just haven’t gotten around to it yet.

"He has got a good ol' boy sense of humor, but he has also got a good ol' boy sense of kick you in the ass, too,"--Gregg Williams describing Bill Johnson. The D WILL ROCK THIS YEAR!

by satchmo26 on Aug 14, 2009 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What's your gigs?

I’m a semi-professional guitarist playing a few different styles. What kind of music do you play?

"He has got a good ol' boy sense of humor, but he has also got a good ol' boy sense of kick you in the ass, too,"--Gregg Williams describing Bill Johnson. The D WILL ROCK THIS YEAR!

by satchmo26 on Aug 14, 2009 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just doing local bar band cover gigs now...

…gave up “the life” a few years back when it helped precipitate divorce #1 (now almost through divorce #2, and working on #3….WTF am I thinking?!?!??! ;-) )….

Been doing the day gig but in the business still thing since about 2000-2001, in the manufacturing end since ’05.

by GSO Saints Fan on Aug 14, 2009 5:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Who Dat Nation

Well Satchmo26, the one thing our post show is how far Who Dat Nation spreads. From North Carolina to New Mexico and beyond. GEAUX SAINTS—GEAUX WHO DAT NATION!!

A saint in Panther country

by carolinasaintsfan on Aug 14, 2009 1:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

it goes further than that!

Wanna say something? Sign up! It's free!

by Saintsational on Aug 14, 2009 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

carolinafan

your almost a local compared to some of us.

Canada here.. and we got overseas friends that call out the Who Dat! too.

by MT_always on Aug 14, 2009 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Further than beyond?

"You'll have sloppy balls. You have to find a way to get a grip on it." -Drew Brees

by coldpizza on Aug 14, 2009 2:46 PM CDT reply actions 5 recs

Alright Saintsational, I’m not sure how or when you will get the opportunity, but this picture needs to find its way to one of your posts in the future. It is just too good.

by Monkey Poop Battle on Aug 14, 2009 3:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cool Outfit!

That’s probably a guy with no girlfriend who still lives in his mom’s basement, but he’s got a cool suit.

"He has got a good ol' boy sense of humor, but he has also got a good ol' boy sense of kick you in the ass, too,"--Gregg Williams describing Bill Johnson. The D WILL ROCK THIS YEAR!

by satchmo26 on Aug 14, 2009 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

by HansDat on Aug 14, 2009 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

pure gold

Superbowl bound!!!...I hope? Go Saints! :D

by skinnykinney on Aug 14, 2009 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

GSO Saints Fan

I am in Raleigh. I might be coming over for the Wyndham next week.

A saint in Panther country

by carolinasaintsfan on Aug 14, 2009 3:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Awesome -

….drop me a line if you do, I’ll give you a tour of the sawdust factory (see post above about being a musician) and we can grab lunch at the best brewpub I’ve ever found.

by GSO Saints Fan on Aug 14, 2009 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs