A few quick takes from Drew Brees' interview with the local media Wednesday:
- The release of running back C.J. Spillerwas a tough decision, but it also speaks to the high regard that the Saints have for Travaris Cadetand the remaining running backs. "I think all of them bring something unique to the table," Brees said. "I think they're all very versatile, can do a lot of things. C.J. can do a lot of things, too. Unfortunate that that happened, but I'm excited about the guys that we have."
- Having offensive coordinator Pete Carmichaelassume more play-calling responsibility isn't a shock to the system. Carmichael, in his 11th season with the team and eighth as offensive coordinator, called plays for much of 2011 (after Coach Sean Paytonsuffered a leg injury in Week 6) and 2012, when the Saints led the league in offense and set six NFL records (in '11, four of which still stand), and then finished first in the NFC and second in the league in offense (in '12). "I feel like those guys (Payton and Carmichael) are so much on the same page," Brees said. "Pete did a phenomenal job in '11, phenomenal job in '12, and really did a great job on Sunday (the Saints had 507 yards and 34 points against Oakland)."
- Remember last year's shootout in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, a 52-49 victory by the Saints over the Giants? Good. Now, forget it. "We can't look at last year and say that that's the type of game it's going to be," Brees said. "I know our defense would take exception to that. I'm certain theirs would as well."
- Brees is 36 yards short of passing Hall of Famer Dan Marinofor third place on the all-time passing yardage list, having thrown for 61,326 yards in his career. Peyton Manningtops the list at 71,940, followed by Brett Favreat 71,838. "I just take it one game at a time right now," Brees said of topping the list. "If we're winning games and you keep making your way up the chart, that's not such a bad thing."
