Saints - Vikings --- Thoughts

[Rob]

Last night's win was encouraging to me for a number of reasons.

I think the defense is better despite giving up a few plays. The other guys get paid, too.

I am especially encouraged that the Saints didn't give up any long runs. If they improved that one single area, they have done well.

Malcolm Jenkins will be the starter all year. Sharper is done unless Jenkins gets hurt.

I'm not terribly worried about the inconsistent offense last night. They didn't turn the ball over and I know they are going to go off on more than a few teams this season. They have no problems here.

The Saints have a great offensive line. It is why they are wearing people down in the fourth quarter.

Their two touchdown drives and that last clock-killing drive were all excellent.

If #9 stays healthy, the Saints will have two games in Dallas this year ... and they'll win both.

[Rob]

One other thing I think:

Mentally, the Saints are the toughest team in the NFL. In the second half, you could see the Saints were imposing themselves on the Vikings offensively and defensively and the Vikes were crumbling. That mental toughness gives them some confidence. It gives me some, too. This team is scary good and I'm loving it.