re: 2014 Secondary Hype Video

The Saints were +11 in turnover differential during the 2009 season. I see it being relatively close to that this year.


For comparison:

2006: -2
2007: -7
2008: -4
2009: +11
2010: -6
2011: -3
2012: +2
2013: 0


2013 was the most dominant defense under Payton, but lacked turnovers. Bringing in someone like Byrd will help that immensely. Surprised to see the the Saints were +2 in 2012, but they let offenses march up and down the field. This defense is set up to be a combination of 2013 and 2009; great tackling, eliminating 3rd conversions and forcing turnovers.

There were 19 takeaways last season, 39 in 2009 (exactly what Seattle had last season). Sharper accounted for 9 interceptions in 09. I think it's realistic to expect Byrd to have a big impact in that center fielder type of role. I'd say Byrd can add around 5+ to the total himself. He will also help out guys like Lewis who had 4 interceptions last season, and Vacarro (1). Bailey has averaged over 3 interceptions per year for his career, and hopefully still has a bit left. Robinson, with significant playing time had 4 interceptions in 11 and 3 in 20102. I think he can account for 2-4 this year if he sees the field a lot. I'm not sure if they will be able to reach 39 takeaways, but I think around 30 seems reasonable. It should also be noted that the 09 team did not have a defensive like near as good as this one.