Saints' backbone breaks in loss to Bengals
Despite the Cincinnati Bengals' struggles offensively, many still seemed to think the New Orleans Saints didn't have a decent shot at knocking them off today. That's nor surprising either, given the unknown that circles around the Saints' offense each week, and the surprising deficiencies that have shown up defensively over the course of the season […]
Despite the Cincinnati Bengals' struggles offensively, many still seemed to think the New Orleans Saints didn't have a decent shot at knocking them off today.
That's nor surprising either, given the unknown that circles around the Saints' offense each week, and the surprising deficiencies that have shown up defensively over the course of the season so far.
However, the Saints had a good shot at winning today's game against the Bengals, courtesy of a few great plays offensively, and some timely plays made on the defensive side of the ball as well.
So much so, that the Saints built an uneasy, yet comfortable 23-14 lead with all the variables leaning their way.
This type of game is perfect for the Saints, well at least on paper it is. Their defense is still good enough to carry this team to win, despite any offensive struggles that do pop up during the game.
That's where the Saints put their faith in and no one blames them for doing so.
Because it's a route that has won them so many games in the past, and will have to be relied on this season if the Saints to win as many games as they possibly can
But unfortunately for New Orleans, this familiar method of play didn't work in their favor against the Bengals.
The defense couldn't seal the deal, giving up 16 straight points, while watching their offense score a measly three in the second half. Only scoring those three points hurts, especially during a game in which the offense found more success than usual.
But giving up those 16 points defensively — and failing to close out the game in the process — hurts even more.
Now, instead of a second straight win and a satisfying 3-3 record, the Saints sit at 2-4 with some difficult games ahead on the schedule.
It'd be unwise to count this team out now, especially since this team has found ways to make some magic out of dust many times before in the past.
But this was a winnable game that should've been won, and that's something that'll leave a bad taste in the mouths of the Saints.
Featured image via Cara Owsley/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK
