The Ravens template for beating the Saints

On Defense -

1. Put 8 men in the box early. This will limit Deuce McAllister's effectiveness and have have Payton abandon the run. Payton shown a nasty habit of not even trying Deuce later in games if he doesn't get 5+ yards per carry early.

2. Be willing to give up a passing TD (but not rushing TD) early. Don't worry it will dividends later.....

3. Tell your defenders to swat at the ball and not worry about making a tackle if the Saints receivers catch a ball. At worst the reciever will fall down with the ball and not make any YAC. At best the Saints receiver will cough up the ball.

4. Once Payton has abandoned the run, delay blitz Brees after disguising your blitzes. Brees will hurry his throws, make mistakes, throw into coverage.

5. Treat Reggie Bush as an average third down back. Be willing to let Bush catch 5 yards passes out the backfield, he'll go down easily with arm tackles. Do not cover him with two men because that is using up valuable coverage men....

On Offense -

1. Establish the run and pass. Make sure to move the ball early. Don't let the Defense have any momentum.

2. Watch for Saints blitzers. The Saints D makes no attempt to disguise it's blitzes so have your QB point them out so they can be blocked.

3. Have your QB quickly locate Jason Craft.

4. Send your fastest receiver on a go route against Fred Thomas.

5. Do not abandon the run, later in the game the Saints D will tire, over pursue, and your back will break off big yardage.