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| Marcio Sanchez / Associated Press |
| Saints QB Drew Brees picked apart the Raiders in New Orleans' victory. |
What we learned ...
The Saints pass the test: In just three possessions, Drew Brees went 14-of-17 passing for 179 yards and two touchdowns. He also helped orchestrate another scoring drive and connected with six different targets in just over a quarter's worth of work. Two of Jeremy Shockey's four receptions from Brees went for over 20 yards. Devery Henderson had a 40-yard touchdown and Robert Meachem caught a short pass and turned it into a 71-yard gain. The Saints did all this with Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas out with injuries.
The Raiders still have work to do: Coaches generally play their starters longer in the third preseason game, and see it as the closest thing to an audition for the season. With that in mind, Oakland trailed 31-0 at the half. The defense gave up big plays while the offense struggled with turnovers and penalties. Taking into account the various mistakes, the Raiders may consider playing their starters more than usual in the preseason finale.
The Saints are taking a stand: After ranking 23rd in total defense last year, the Saints have allowed 28 points and forced nine turnovers through three preseason games. With little question about how good the offense can be, New Orleans could be a real threat in the NFC if the defense can carry its success into the regular season.
