December 19, 2019
HO HO HO
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THE WIZARDRY OF OS
This probably goes without saying, but this college playoff thing is way better than just making a bowl game.
First of all, if things go according to plan we will have two more LSU football games this year. In addition, the first game is December 28, which is only 11 days away as I type. That means it isn’t a forever wait like the BCS title game in the past. Then the championship game is January 13, so the season could almost get us to just three weeks from National Signing Day.
Second, everyone is going to play in the game and it isn’t even a question. Meanwhile, Bama is most likely to be without two starters in their bowl game. I understand the decision of those players, but as a fan it definitely takes some of the fun out of the game. Fortunately, that is not an issue for teams that make the playoffs.
Next week is the week to focus on LSU’s first playoff appearance, though. This week the Saints caught some breaks and the biggest was an upset by the Falcaints over San Francisco. I still have no idea how the Atlanta has only won five games this year, but I am thankful they pulled it together to help us out.
Meanwhile, the Saints offense is rounding into form and that is even with injuries along the offensive line. They have found their groove and tempo. Smith, Cook, and Hill are true receiving threats that are taking advantage of the attention Kamara and Thomas receive (not that it matters for Thomas).
Payton and Brees often talk about the tempo and rhythm of the offense. Against Indy, it was the first time all year we saw the huddle broken in plenty of time and the ball being snapped with more than 5 seconds on the play clock.
If the offense avoids injuries (at this point I don’t know the severity of Warford’s injury), the defense will just need to be good enough. A week ago, I wasn’t getting concerned that the defense would not be able to hold up with the injuries to the front seven, but things are looking up.
Signing Janoris Jenkins is significant. Eli Apple simply has not played well the last two months. Whether Jenkins can come in and take Apple’s spot or play in the nickel is unknown. But, adding a player of his quality at this point of the year in the secondary can ease the sting of losing players in the front seven.
Furthermore, even with the injuries, the defense has remained stout against the run. The free agent signings of Brown, Edwards, and Tuttle (undrafted) are coming up big. I am also feeling hopeful about Noah Spence providing pass rush depth.
Overall, the front seven won’t be as good without Rankins and Davenport, but maybe the secondary will be slightly better and they will balance each other out.
I have tried to wait until the Saints and LSU completed their seasons before reflecting on the two quarterbacks, but I can’t delay it any further. Mostly, because I need to remind myself to appreciate Burrow and Brees for their ability, leadership, and class in which they have represented our teams and this state.
Brees should not retire and Saints fans need to simply stop and appreciate what we have. The Saints need to sign Brees to another two year contract and make sure they draft a quality wide receiver to go with Michael Thomas. The Saints are not going to get Joe Burrow, but they would hit the bank if they were able to get Justin Jefferson or Devonta Smith.
As for Burrow, we all need to enjoy the prospect of watching him for two more games. Of course, he is right is spreading the credit around. Every piece of the offense is necessary in order to break all these records. At the same time, we have all watched him take big hits and play better. We have watched him step up in the pocket and make great throws. We have watched him handle every moment that has come his way and I just hope the shoe fits two more times.
HEY REF
Dennis Dearie has not been a good little boy this week as he is taking a week off from writing his column!
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