bclemms
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It wasn't a pretty game, it wasn't really even an important game in week 3 vs an AFC opponent. However, this is the type of game we lose in the past. Today's game reminded me of the Redskins game in 2006, the Rams game and Titans in 2007 and just about every other game along the way where the passing game struggled and we lost.
The difference between those and this game is great defense and a damn good running game. Payton allowed our offensive line to simply take that game over and put trust in the running game and put trust in the defense. The third and 9 draw to Bush is a beautiful example of how Payton trusted the defense and played it safe.
I don't expect this to become our type of offense but it is the type of offense that wins playoff games. I love Brees, he is hands down the best player in football but in the NFL it is extremely hard to ask one player to win every game.
Not only are defensive coordinators not going to sleep well against this offense but offensive coordinators and head coaches are going to have nightmares at the thought of our passing game being shut down and giving up 200 yards on the ground while our defense swarms to the ball, plays tough and disciplined while forcing turnovers.
This type of game is one that we needed. Not only does Drew Brees set the tempo but our offensive line, RBs and now even the defense can dictate the game to the opposition.
I was extremely down on Payton from the NFC Championship game loss all the way until around the middle of last season and he finally learned, something finally clicked and he realized that he would have to find the will power to stick with the running game when that is all the defense would give. This season I think he really understands it and the addition of Greer, Sharper and Williams gives Payton the confidence to lean on the running game and play a slower tempo of football when needed.
The difference between those and this game is great defense and a damn good running game. Payton allowed our offensive line to simply take that game over and put trust in the running game and put trust in the defense. The third and 9 draw to Bush is a beautiful example of how Payton trusted the defense and played it safe.
I don't expect this to become our type of offense but it is the type of offense that wins playoff games. I love Brees, he is hands down the best player in football but in the NFL it is extremely hard to ask one player to win every game.
Not only are defensive coordinators not going to sleep well against this offense but offensive coordinators and head coaches are going to have nightmares at the thought of our passing game being shut down and giving up 200 yards on the ground while our defense swarms to the ball, plays tough and disciplined while forcing turnovers.
This type of game is one that we needed. Not only does Drew Brees set the tempo but our offensive line, RBs and now even the defense can dictate the game to the opposition.
I was extremely down on Payton from the NFC Championship game loss all the way until around the middle of last season and he finally learned, something finally clicked and he realized that he would have to find the will power to stick with the running game when that is all the defense would give. This season I think he really understands it and the addition of Greer, Sharper and Williams gives Payton the confidence to lean on the running game and play a slower tempo of football when needed.