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The Saints cannot continue to count on strong defensive performance to win games

By Justin Dunbar

DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 29: Latavius Murray #28 of the New Orleans Saints celebrates alongside Michael Thomas #13 and Erik McCoy #78 during the third quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on November 29, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 29: Latavius Murray #28 of the New Orleans Saints celebrates alongside Michael Thomas #13 and Erik McCoy #78 during the third quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on November 29, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
(Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

Why This Identity Is Problematic

A win is a win, right? Thus, why should it matter where it comes from?

This is true, but when it comes to predicting future success, how a team is winning is extremely important. Sure, the Saints have dominated their opponents, but it mostly been due to defense and special teams.

Unfortunately, if there is something we know about defensive production, it is that it is very volatile. This is because it is heavily reliant on the offenses they are facing.

Over the past five games, New Orleans has gotten to play Nick Foles, Nick Mullens, and a team without a quarterback. Meanwhile, Brady and the Bucs haven’t been exactly clicking on all cylinders, while the Falcons rank 21st in yards/play and lost star receiver Julio Jones in the middle of their game.

If Jones is healthy, New Orleans will have to face him, the top two offenses in yards/play (Chiefs and Vikings), and a Panthers team that ranks 10th in yards/play. I’m not saying they’ll allow 30 points/game, but expecting them to allow just seven points/game would be foolish.

Thus, more pressure will be placed on Hill and the offense, which is the last thing Saints fans should want to happen. Even when Brees comes back, who knows how he’ll play immediately?

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