Beating the Vikings this time around

Defensively-get off of the field on 3rd down. The first Vikings drive of the first game was brutal. Multiple 3rd down conversions and dead ball penalties that allowed for a 14 play 78 yd. drive. The drive only resulted in a field goal but should’ve been a quick 3 and out with our offense looking to build on their lead.

Offensively-TD’s in the redzone. Lutz hit 4 field goals in the first game, each of those drives the Saints made it into the Redzone. 3 of the field goals were kicked in goal to go situations. The Saints left a ton of points on the board.

Off the radar reason why I think the Saints can pull it out this weekend.

Offensive Line
*Max Unger struggled in the first game and understandably so. He wasn’t expected to be ready for the start of the season due to foot surgery but was able get on the field for that game. First real live action coming off of surgery and matched up against Linval Joseph, worst case scenario for Unger. This game you should see a much better Unger as his play has improved throughout the season as his foot has strengthened.
*Ramcyk started at LT for his first ever NFL game, matched up against a HEALTHY Everson Griffen. Big swing here with Armstead at LT and Griffen gimpy. If Armstead can lock down Griffen then that gives you the ability to double Joseph with guard help.
*Peat is out and that sucks but Kelemete has done a good job, especially when called on to play LG this season.
*Warford was in his first game with a new team at RG.
*Strief was at RT and now you have Ramcyk’s athleticism matched up against Hunter.

The Carolina Panther team that the Saints defeated 3 times this season beat this Vikings team in Week 13 and they beat them on the ground. Stewart and McCaffery combined for 138 yards on 24 carries.

Looking forward to some redemption on Sunday.