Win Or Lose In Divisional Round, New Orleans Fans Have Reason For Optimism Going Forward

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Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports

This Saturday when the New Orleans Saints travel to the Pacific Northwest to take on the Seattle Seahawks,  win or lose, fans and followers of the Saints can take comfort in the fact that the Saints have had another solid season. After a disappointing 2012 season, the return of head coach Sean Payton from his year long suspension bolstered the team, as did bringing in Rob Ryan to turn around the lackluster defense that gave up a record setting 7,042 yards to opposing offenses.

Quarterback Drew Brees, who passed for 5,000+ yards in 2012, also seemed to revel in the return of Payton by throwing for another 5,000+ yards in 2013. Although Brees and the rest of the team seemed a bit shaky at times on the road, the overall confidence and dominant play was noticeable and some of that New Orleans swagger was back in action with the end result being another NFL season with a top five offense at play in Cajun country.

Likewise for the aforementioned Ryan and his defense. Following a dismal outing behind former coordinator Steve Spagnuolo the previous season, Ryan and his aggressive defense quickly turned around and put out a top ranked defense onto the field. This helped New Orleans right the ship from a season ago and was a big reason the Saints made it to the playoffs after a one year break.

So, like I said earlier, win or lose Saints fans should take comfort that things have gotten back to normal. Payton is still an excellent play caller and game manager, Ryan and his defense look to remain a formidable opponent and Brees should have several more years to help New Orleans get back into position to win a Lombardi Trophy.

Sure, it would be nice if the Saints managed to upset the Seahawks following their embarrassing loss early in December. Yes, it would be nice if that theoretical victory then led to a Super Bowl appearance, and it would be even nicer if that appearance turned into a win. If it happens, it happens.

For now, however, I am just happy to be enjoying yet another week of New Orleans Saints football.

Jack Cavanaugh is a New Orleans Saints contributing writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @cav_jack, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

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