First off, congratulations to Vernon Hargreaves III for getting the first interception of his NFL career. Now that the big first one is out of the way, let’s hope many more follow soon. secondly, props to the entire defense as a whole for once again shutting down one of the league’s powerhouse offenses.
For years now we’ve been getting used to seeing our defense get worked over by the saints offense with future Hall of Famer Drew Brees behind Center. Today was different, today our defense came hungry and they feasted on their opponents for the 5th straight week. Brees ended up with 257 yards, but with 3 picks and no touchdowns. Their run game was also held to just 46 yards.
The turn around this defense has made is nothing short of amazing. Through the first 8 games of the season, the defense had allowed an average of 398 total yards per game (117 rushing and 281 passing), 29 points per game, and created 1.37 turnovers per game.
Over the last 5 games, those numbers have all changed for the better in a huge way. They have allowed 298 total yards per game (99 rushing and 199 passing), just 12.6 points per game and are now averaging almost 3 turnovers per game.
We can’t say enough good things about the way this defensive unit has been playing recently. Without their lights out play, this season would be having a completely different look right now.
There is no doubt about it, defense is definitely back in Tampa, and it’s a beautiful looking thing to see.
