STARTERS:New Orleans opened the game on offense with their projected starting lineup. Defensively, Jonathan Casillasstarted at weakside linebacker in place of Scott Shanle. The Saints starting offense played into the second quarter, finishing their night with a two-yard touchdown rush by RB Reggie Bush on a 20 play, 86 yard drive that spanned 10:01.
INJURY REPORT:P Thomas Morsteadsuffered a shoulder injury when running Patriots WR Julian Edelmanout of bounds on a 40-yard return, stopping a potential touchdown in the first quarter. With Morstead sidelined for the remainder of the contest, K Garrett Hartleywas forced to assume punting and kickoff duties. In his first punt, Hartley boomed a 55-yard kick. Hartley punted five times overall for a 47.0 gross average.
SMALL SCHOOL SENSATIONS:Two players from small colleges competing for roster spots made key plays that decreased New Orleans' deficit from 17 to 3. WR Larry Beavers, a product of Division III Wesley College returned a kickoff 97 yards for a score. RB Chris Ivory, who finished his college career at Division II Tiffin, tied for the club lead in rushing with six carries for 30 yards, with a two-yard scoring run.
DEFENSIVE NOTES:Starting at weakside linebacker in place of Scott Shanle, Jonathan Casillas led the Saints with ten solo tackles and one sack. DT DeMario Pressley also added a second half takedown.
WHAT'S NEXT: The Saints will return to action on Saturday at the practice fields at the club's practice facility in Metairie. The 8:50 a.m. practice will be held outdoors and be open to the public. The 4:20 workout will take place indoors and will be closed to the public.
