Saints Love: Hoby Brenner

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

5 Saints Who Should Be In The Saints Hall Of Fame

New Orleans resident Patrick Michael put together the following list over at Yahoo Sports of the 5 Saints players who should be inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame.

Do you agree? Let's take a look.

5. LB Mark Fields (1995-2000) - Michaels argues that Fields was incredibly gifted, recorded 23 sacks, went to the Pro Bowl and once memorably chased down Isaac Bruce from behind. All fair points but should he join Joe Federspiel as the only non Dome Patrol LB in the HOF? Hmm, on balance I'd say so but there are others further up the queue.

4. TE John Tice (1983-92) - Tice came just before my time and I mainly remember Hoby Brenner from this period so it's difficult for me to officiate on this one. Michaels points out he was more of a glorified lineman who was all important for Mayes, Hilliard and co to start posting 1K yards per season.

Fair point. It's often the unsexy positions that go overlooked. On this one I'll take Mr Michaels opinion on trust.

3. DE Darren Howard (2000-05) - racked up 11 sacks in rookie campaign as part of Saints team that won the first playoff game in team history (tick). Ended Saints career with 44.5 sacks, 196 tackles and 65 assisted.

Yep I think he gets in but again further down the road.

2. Owner Tom Benson (1985-present) - As Michaels points out there are only 3 members of the Saints organization who are non players namely Jim Finks, Jim Mora and Steve Sidwell. As such it is clear Benson deserves a place having helped to revive the franchise, keep them in New Orleans and help bring back that first Super Bowl.

1. RB Deuce McAllister (2001-08) - The Legend and shoe in himself, the mighty Deuce brooks no argument from me. One of the greatest Saints players and people of all time. With 7,816 yards from scrimmage, 54 TDs and two Pro Bowls to his name there is little doubt that Deuce will be enshrined in the not too distant future.

Other possibles that didn't make the list:
Aaron Brooks QB
Quinn Early WR
Craig "Ironhead" Heyward RB - R.I.P.

Read the full article here http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ycn-8666287

Friday, November 13, 2009

Jeremy Shockey Highlights

After a slow start to his Saints career due to injury Jeremy Shockey is becoming one of my favorite Saints to watch. He's running his routs better, developing a good understanding with Drew Brees and demonstrating what a safe pair of hands he can be. He is now an important weapon in the Saints arsenal and a big time player.

Jeremy Shockey highlights what the Saints have been missing at Tight End for too long.

His performance against the Dolphins in particular stood out. He was able to get open when it mattered and provide the outlet to Drew Brees at a vital stage in the 4th Quarter. Catching the ball over the middle Shockey was able to use his speed and strength to break away for 66 yards deep into Dolphin territory. This set up a Saints score and his overall contribution was a major factor in the big Week 6 come from behind victory.

Jeremy Shockey Highlights

At the half way point in the season Shockey is on course for one of his biggest single seasons with 402 receiving yards already racked up. Throw in his considerable blocking contribution and you've got a worthy Saints Pro Bowl candidate at Tight End; almost reminds me of the good ol days with Hoby Brenner.

Beyond the weapons he brings to the field Shockey is also a big time personality. In a team sport like football it's vital to have guys like that in the locker room to break the ice and keep things relaxed especially with the media hyping up talk of a perfect season. His veteran leadership will be vital as the Saints navigate their way through the novel experience of the playoffs.