Saints vs. Panthers

7-0! The Saints have now tied their best start in franchise history and fans (and some players, i.e. Reggie Bush) have brought up the word undefeated.

I think its ridiculous to even talk about or worry about the Saints going undefeated. We're not even at the halfway point of the season and for a team with two playoff victories in the franchise's history, winning in the postseason is the only accomplishment that fans need to worry about. This is the best Saints team ever, but say they go 13-3, 14-2, 15-1 or even 16-0 and then lose in the playoffs, it's all for not. Just ask the Patriots. But with the Saints history, losing in the Superbowl will still be a victory, but that's way too far down the line to even worry about now.

This week the team takes on another division rival in the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers have had a rough season, but they seem to have pulled themselves out of the ashes and are now a game below .500.

This will be a tough game for the Saints. The Panthers and Saints always play tough, close games and this one will likely be no difference. John Fox won't put the game in Jake Delhomme's hands and will likely run the ball down the Saints throats. The way that Michael Turner was able to gash the Saints defense has to have DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart eager to get their shot.

New Orleans will have to prove they can stop the run to beat Carolina. If they do that, they can force Delhomme into making mistakes, something the Saints have made every opposing quarterback do this year with fumbles and interceptions. I don't worry about the Saints offense. They should be able to move the ball, but the offensive line will be tested against Julius Peppers and company. Drew Brees has been feeling more pressure in the past few games and the o-line will have their hands full once again. Look for short, quick passes and delayed runs to throw off the Panthers pass rush.

Sean Payton is a bright coach and he'll put his team in the best spots to succeed. Plus, this game is once again in the Superdome and the "Who Dat Nation" will be out in full force to support their team.

Prediction:
Saints 30
Panthers 25