3 Reasons Why the Saints Win the NFC South in 2016
#1. DREW BREES AND THE SAINTS OFFENSE WILL BE BETTER THAN EVER
Nov 1, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) celebrates with wide receiver Brandin Cooks (10) after a touchdown against the New York Giants during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Giants 52-49. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
The Saints are primed to have their best year offensively in the Drew Brees-Sean Peyton Era. This is arguably the most raw talent Brees has ever had to work with.
Brandin Cooks, who emerged as the number one receiver last year is coming into his third season with the Saints. He’s had time to develop chemistry with Brees, and by know he knows how teams will cover him. Fantasy owners would do well to nab Cooks in their fantasy drafts this season.
Michael Thomas has drawn rave reviews in OTA’s and is expected to be a big factor. Even if it takes time for him to adjust in his rookie campaign, then there’s also Brandon Coleman — the 6’6” athletic freak — who is also set to fill the big receiver role.
Additionally, new tight end Coby Fleener is a mismatch for defensive coverages over the middle, and Willie Snead was always open on third downs last year.
Nov 1, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram (22) runs against the New York Giants during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Giants 52-49. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
This is to say nothing of Mark Ingram, who was on pace for his first 1,000 yard season before he was derailed with a shoulder injury.
C.J. Spiller is expected to be back and be fully healthy, and head coach Sean Payton has already commented on the noticeable difference in how he runs.
Ingram will provide the thunder, Spiller the lightning, and that’s to say nothing of Tim Hightower — who was one of the most inspiring stories in the NFL last season.
The offensive line is the biggest question mark on offense heading into the season. If they can keep Drew Brees upright, and open some lanes for Ingram and Spiller; then the Saints offense has enough talent offensively to surpass their 2011 numbers, when they were they led the league in total offense, and ranked 2nd in scoring.
It’s for those 3 reasons alone, why the Saints will be the team to knock off the Carolina Panthers from atop the NFC South in 2016……