Saints-Falcons Final Score: New-Look Defense Comes Up Big In 23-17 Saints Win

Well, it only took another 4th down red zone stop in the 4th quarter by a previously porous Saints defense to give the Saints their second straight heart-stopping home win over the Atlanta Falcons 23-17. Just another day at the office, bitches.

I'm still fumbling around trying to find the right words as my emotions and heart are pounding after that thrilling victory that hearkened back to Saints openers of old.

At this time, it is highly appropriate to salute the entire Saints 2013 defensive squad and FFRR for bringing timely pressure to Matt Ryan, especially in the second half, and for digging deep late to preserve the win, when it seemed to be slipping away from them. Roman Harper secured both a fumble recovery and an interception, while Akiem Hicks, Junior Galette, and Parys Haralson (JunkBond paid off!!!) all notched sacks of Ryan. And give Keenan Lewis credit for forcing the fumble by Julio Jones. Aside from giving up some big plays and missing some tackles, the defense looked ok. Not great, but certainly not the s******** defense in the history of the NFL. Whew!

On the other side of the ball, we've got Marques Colston's record-setting TD catch, Drew Brees not playing great, but still getting 20+ completions for an NFL-record 53 consecutive games, zippy Darren Sproles lighting up the pass-catching RB scoreboard with his hands and feet and balance, and Pierre Thomas looking darn fine running the ball. As expected, Charles Brown had his ups and downs, and the whole O-line needs to work on their run blocking.

With all that, the Saints have celebrated the return of Sean Payton with a big win over a division rival in Week One, which is just what the doctor ordered to start 2013 off right.

Check the stats, vote for your MVP, and discuss the game with all your friends!

New Orleans Saints

Atlanta Falcons