At times this season, not to mention this past weekend, Drew Brees could stand in the pocket, scan the entire field, pump fake one direction and fire back another. It’s one reason the Saints averaged 31.9 points per game. At times this season, including many on Sunday, quarterbacks had no time to throw vs. Minnesota. The Vikings recorded 48 sacks in the regular season and six more Sunday vs. Dallas. Naturally, this is a major key entering Sunday’s NFC Championship Game.
Matchup to watch » DE Jared Allen vs. LT Jermon Bushrod. The Saints will not leave Bushrod one-on-one too often; not if they want to win. For Brees to execute his fakes, Bushrod, who replaced the injured Jammal Brown this season, must have a good game. He’s been inconsistent and was benched once this season; Allen’s relentless play will test him.
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Under the radar » Minnesota end Ray Edwards. He recorded three sacks vs. Dallas, but also suffered a sprained knee and his status is uncertain. The 6-foot-5, 270-pound Edwards recorded 8 1/2 sacks during the regular season. Opposing lines often double Minnesota tackle Pat Williams as well as Kevin Williams. That often leaves Edwards in favorable rush situations.
The edge » Even. Minnesota has an elite rush; New Orleans has protected Brees well all season (only 20 sacks). Right guard Jahri Evans was named All-Pro and he’s joined on the Pro Bowl roster by right tackle Jonathan Stinchcomb. And the screens to Reggie Bush can slow the rush, too.
