All Things Saints: Your Daily News 5/27
By John Hendrix
Aug 9, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Terron Armstead (72) runs out with teammates before a preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Chiefs 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
It’s been a while Who Dat Nation! I’ve gladly enjoyed a nice little vacation for the past ten days, but now it’s back to action! Here’s a few news stories to get you caught up on for today.
Ramon Antonio Vargas | The Advocate | Saints to return to football with OTAs this week
"Due to the lack of live contact, it’s highly unlikely any players battling for spots will secure one. But it’s a chance for some players — especially newcomers — to show they can learn the Saints’ systems and philosophies."
So there’s excitement involved with the New Orleans Saints kicking off OTAs (organized team activities) today. These are geared to help make players better through practice sessions in the classroom and the field. It’s also a great chance for veterans to meet the ‘new blood’ if they haven’t done so already, and it starts to lay the foundation for the season. Be sure to read Vargas’ article, it talks about five issues the team faces.
Mike Triplett | ESPN | Saints line: Reasons for hope, concern
"Not only are the Saints counting on second-year left tackle Terron Armstead and center Tim Lelito to make big leaps in their sophomore seasons, but they’re also encouraged that longtime veterans like right tackle Zach Strief and Pro Bowl guards Jahri Evans and Ben Grubbs showed steady improvement as the season went along."
It will be an interesting season for the offensive line. Drew Brees was sacked a career high thirty-seven times last season. Brees was put on his back way too many times last year, and this unit will face a challenge of keeping Drew upright. I firmly believe Brian de la Puente’s replacement at center will have a huge factor on keeping Drew from being sacked.
Mike Triplett | ESPN | Stills aims to avoid sophomore slump
"“There’s still so much I can still learn about this offense. … There’s definitely more that I can do. There’s always more that you can do. I’m learning as much as I can. And wherever they put me, I’m gonna be prepared to make plays.”"
Twin Kenny’s (Stills & Vaccaro) were a ‘breath of fresh air’ for the team last year. With the departure of Lance Moore, Stills will have a glorious chance to make strides this year. Opposing defenses will face a good bit of three receiver sets this season, and will be tasked with guarding against Jimmy Graham, Marques Colston, Brandin Cooks, and Kenny Stills.
Other Articles (In Case You Missed It)
- Thomas Morstead launches clothing line to benefit his foundation
- New Orleans Saints fans pick Jairus Byrd as favorite offseason addition
- New Orleans not the only traditional Super Bowl city awaiting another chance, reports say