Why the Saints' Week 1 win made HC Dennis Allen look like a genius

The New Orleans Saints' Week 1 victory over the Tennessee Titans was not perfect. they committed untimely penalties, and the offensive line was simply not good enough.  That being said, there were plenty of positives for the Saints. They can thank Dennis Allen for a bulk of the good stuff from Week 1.  Allen was […]

Adam Holt NFL News Writer
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The New Orleans Saints' Week 1 victory over the Tennessee Titans was not perfect. they committed untimely penalties, and the offensive line was simply not good enough. 

That being said, there were plenty of positives for the Saints. They can thank Dennis Allen for a bulk of the good stuff from Week 1. 

Allen was a big contributor in the Derek Carr sweepstakes. He's had a relationship with the veteran and believed in his potential in New Orleans. Carr delivered in Week 1 with a great second half and multiple clutch throws. 

Additionally, Allen called a great defensive game against Tennessee. He forced tight windows for Ryan Tannehill, leading to three interceptions. Halftime adjustments held Derrick Henry and the Titans' running game in check in the second half. 

Keep in mind that Allen also re-tooled his defensive coaching staff during this offseason as well. It looked like Allen and DC Joe Woods had a solid game plan for the Titans. 

At multiple levels, Allen was impressive. The Saints need him to be a better overall game manager than last season, and Week 1 was a step in the right direction for that as well. He deserves some legit credit for the win over Mike Vrabel and the Titans. 

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