Can the Saints EVER Catch a Break?

Growing up in a city without a NFL franchise allows you to pick a team to support. So as a kid, I had the choice of two reasonably close franchises - the Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints. Wanting to be different, I decided to cast my lot with the lowly New Orleans Saints, and I did enjoy a few nice years when the Dome Patrol (Ricky Jackson, Pat Swilling, Sam Mills, and Vaughn Johnson) were dominating the NFL as one of the best linebacking corps in history. Of course, those fond memories have all but been erased by Aaron Brooks' tenure as the quarterback of the Saints.

So, I went into this year with the usual expectations of a true Saints fan - NONE. Yet, the team has come out strong to start the season, and the Saints sit a top the always tough NFC South division with a 4-1 record. Granted I'm not thinking that a Super Bowl appearance is even remotely possible, but with 4 wins already, it's only natural to start thinking about possibly earning a wild card spot. Then today comes the news that Roman Harper is out for the year with a knee injury. Harper has been playing superb this year and has been a pleasant surprise coming out of Alabama...and yes, it takes a lot for me to compliment any former Alabama player. Omar Stoutmire is supposed to take over in Harper's safety spot. Having seen Stoutmire play in the past for the Dallas Cowboys, it would seem that the euphoria over the 4-1 Saints will be very short-lived.

The future is bright though in the Big Easy...and at least we Saint fans can enjoy the beautiful game winning punt return by Reggie Bush for a few more days!