The Saints defense was embarrassed the last time we saw them in a meaningful game.
They gave up 41 points to the Seahawks, and were on the wrong end of an all-time highlight authored by Marshawn Lynch. You’d think the Saints would want to forget about that day, but they keep it at the front of their mind.
“We’ve discussed it sometimes this week,” defensive coordinator Gregg Williams told Mike Triplett of the New Orleans Times-Picayune. “I coach with a chip on my shoulder, and they play with a chip on their shoulders, too.”
Williams didn’t just mention it this week. He’s mentioned it every week since the lockout ended. When the team first returned, he greeted his players with a video of that game.
“It should still bother you, if you care about how people view you, if you have pride in how you play. If it doesn’t bother you, then you have a real problem,” defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis said.
The Saints will have a very different lineup on Thursday night. Defensive end Will Smith is suspended. Perhaps team’s best defensive player safety Malcom Jenkins is healthy. Free agent pickups Shaun Rogers and Aubrayo Franklin will be factors.
The names have changed, but the approach will not. Williams says the Saints will blitz a lot like usual.
“We’ve got to play our way,” Williams said.