Saints vs Jets: Drew Brees Returns to Action

In Drew Brees’ first preseason action, the 40-year old proved why he continues to be the best in the business at the quarterback position. Brees only saw action in the first drive of the game before being pulled, but one drive was all it took for the veteran to find his rhythm.

Drew Brees and the First Team Starters:

The first drive can be characterized by two things: brilliance and electricity. Now, neither of those characterizations can be quantified but for fans who watched the game they understand. Brees went 4/6 with 68-yards and a touchdown. Included in those four completed passes were two wicked throws to Michael Thomas. One of the throws was threaded in between two Jets defenders, and the other was a 19-yard strike to Thomas for a touchdown. The chemistry between the two has never seemed better.

Alvin Kamara continued to impress with great route running and solid runs up the middle. The third year running back should see an expanded role now that the versatile Mark Ingram has left for Baltimore. Kamara has proven this offseason he is ready for the role.

Unfortunately, we did not get to see any of the chemistry that has been built between Jared Cook and Drew Brees. However, from training camp reports, there should be nothing to worry about.

Teddy Bridgewater and Taysom Hill:

Who would have thought that an argument of which quarterback would be better suited to replace Brees would have been started between Bridgewater and Hill? However, last week Teddy Bridgewater proceeded to have a less than impressive display of talent (he was sick), while Taysom Hill led the Saints to a comeback win. Some have described Taysom Hill as the new Steve Young, while others still remain committed to Teddy Bridgewater.

The third preseason game should have given more insight into which quarterback is truly the “QB2”. One has to imagine it is still Teddy Bridgewater, but both of their stat lines against the Jets provides no more clarity than what the team already had going into the game. Bridgewater continued to show pose in the pocket, but was continuously high on his throws throughout the game. Hill showed his athleticism by continuing plays when his arm could not get it done. With that being said, Hill made some great throws tonight, the biggest highlight being his great pass to Grayson late in the fourth quarter. The debate continues..

The Defense and Special Teams:

The first team defense looked solid against the Jets. Cam Jordan and Marcus Davenport played the first quarter and looked polished. Cam Jordan has never been a concern in terms of preparation for the season, however, it is reassuring to see the rest of the squad is in line with its captain.

The special teams squad looked a lot better today than they did against the Chargers last week. Will Lutz looked sharp and is poised to have another great year. Perhaps the biggest play of the game, and most definitely on special teams was Deonte Harris’ 78-yard punt return touchdown. Everyone had been waiting on bated breath to see his breakout.

Overall, the game was characterized by fantastic performances from the stars, solid production from veterans, and a crazy amount of penalties. The dress rehearsal went nearly to plan, and the upcoming season should bring hope to to the entire Who Dat Nation.