5. Ryan's Defense Continues Solid Play

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Rob Ryan's young defense has continued to play solid football, helping the Saints stay in close games and pull away in others. Against the Bills, Ryan's defense caused four fumbles, of which three were lost, and had one interception. The Saints are now +8 in the giveaway/takeaway column.

Ryan will need his squad to continue to grow and learn together to close out the second half of the season. There are still plenty of divisional games to play as well as a tough Monday night road game against Seattle. So far, the defense has really been a crutch to lean on for an offense that has sputtered in the beginning of games. If the offense can finally begin to fire on all cylinders and the defense continues its strong play, look out opponents.

4. Breesy Does It

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Drew Brees had another monster game, going 26-of-34 passing with five touchdowns and no interceptions. He was able to get the ball to 10 different receivers and helped young star Kenny Stills have a breakout game. This game marked the eighth time Brees has had a game with five or more touchdowns in a game.

If Brees can get the offense to start strong in the opening quarters in the future, this will be a dangerous team to face off against, especially at home.

3. A Star Rookie Is Born

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Speaking of the young rookie, Kenny Stills had what was by far his best game yet. Although he had only three catches, those receptions amounted to 129 yards and two touchdowns.

Stills has shown that he can be a viable alternative when Jimmy Graham and Marques Colston are otherwise covered or neutralized. Heck, he might even become a throw-to-first kind of player if he continues to grow and develop his craft. With his speed, separation skills and ability to put himself into positions to come down with the ball, Stills' future is looking promising.

2. Graham Limited, But Still Contributes

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And speaking of Jimmy Graham, his return after an injury in Week 6 was a great thing to see. Although he returned in a limited capacity and played on just 16 offensive snaps, he continued to produce. Graham finished the day with three receptions for 37 yards and two touchdowns.

Head coach Sean Payton planned to use Graham sparingly and only for a limited time ahead of the game, and will likely continue to do so as he continues to heal from his foot injury. Once he is fully healthy, however, look out NFL.

1. Eyes On The Postseason

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They probably will not admit to it, but you have to believe the Saints' players and coaches are thinking about the playoffs already. Sure, they have to get there first, but at this point it's looking like they will continue to maintain a solid hold of the NFC South.

New Orleans still has four divisional games remaining and of course two difficult NFC West opponents to match up against. The Saints have a tough three game schedule in mid-November where they will host the San Francisco 49ers on a Sunday, travel to Atlanta on a short week for a Thursday night game against the Falcons and then travel to play the Seahawks in Seattle for a Monday Night Football contest.

It will be crucial that New Orleans wins at least two of those games to maintain favorable standing in the NFC. It would be especially nice if they could win against Seattle.