Mike Detillier: Saints face huge challenge in Chicago

CowtownSaint said
Amen Brother.

Small Ball typically boils down to effort and timing. Taking what is given and being aggressive at the right time. Putting guys in the proper position to succeed. Momentum and field position are crucial in these types of games. We have had a few bungles on play calls that could have cost us over the last month but for the most part, Payton has done a wonderful job of managing these type of games and keeping the boys focused and making the plays to close out games.

That being said, I truly believe that we are going to go into this game with a statement to make. We may not need a lot of small ball this week, could be a real ground and pound, beat em up type of game.

To the extent that pounding helps you control TOP, I would include it in my concept of small ball. I think the game totally hinges on the O line. The way they played against Dallas would get you a loss 98 percent of the time. Most of that game was downright unwatchable due to penalties. Today will show just how much of that was due to Dallas front 7 and how much was just an off day for our line. I’m sure hoping it was the later because even without Hicks, the bears can maul.