Playing a team in preseason that you're going to be playing for real in just a few weeks is always something to be concerned about. You do learn a little something about each other. Who can beat who one-on-one is the main thing but, since both teams want to get their first teams some work, there is going to be an offensive motive to make a few first downs and score some points and there is going to be a defensive motive to get some stops and turnovers. That means there will be some game-planning. Who can withhold the most?
Here's what I'm looking for from the Saints:
What kind of pass protection can they muster? I didn't think it was very good against the 49ers last week.
I'd like to see them get a few yards in the running game early. They seem to do fine with the running game in the 3rd and 4th quarters but I'd like to see a little more production in the 1st and 2nd quarters. That will help play action.
I'd like to see the defense continue what they were doing last week ... playing fast. On that note, I'd be shocked if Jonathan Casillas is not in the starting lineup against the Packers. He needs to play under control but he's all over the field and in on just about every tackle. I see Will Herring on the strong side and Casillas on the weak side with Vilma in the center when the Saints are in the 4-3. When they're in the 3-4, add Scott Shanle. I don't know how many linebackers the Saints are going to keep but the four mentioned plus the two rookie draft picks, who will probably both make the team, makes six. I think Jo-Lonn Dunbar is in trouble.
No major injuries to important players, please.
Here's what I'm looking for from the Texans:
Anyone fantasy-worthy that I don't already know about. Andre Johnson, Matt Schaub, Owen Daniels, and Arian Foster are guys I know and all of them will make someone's fantasy team in every league. Who else do the Texans have worth taking a chance on?
19 days until Saints v Packers
