Offense
OFFENSIVE LINE
Against an aggressive front, the offensive line provided fair protection for Orton while springing backs for 183 rushing yards.
GRADE: A-
RECEIVERS
Justin Gage caught his third career TD pass. Muhsin Muhammad’s leaping catch for 30 yards in the second quarter was a highlight grab, and his 22-yard catch on the final drive was crucial.
GRADE: B
QUARTERBACKS
Kyle Orton threw a precise pass for a TD to Justin Gage but badly overthrew Gage for an interception. But his 22-yard completion to Muhsin Muhammad in the final two minutes was the throw of the game.
GRADE: C+
RUNNING BACKS
Thomas Jones was swarmed before aggravating his injured ribs, leaving with 40 yards on 11 carries. Cedric Benson and Adrian Peterson alternated in the second half, both bursting for 36-yard runs. Benson’s 27-yarder keyed the winning drive.
GRADE: A-
SPECIAL TEAMS
Robbie Gould’s 35-yard field goal just before halftime built momentum,
and his 28-yarder won the game. The Bears did themselves no favors with two flags on punt returns. Brad Maynard put three of six punts inside the New Orleans 20.
GRADE: A-
COACHING
Offensive line coach Harry Heistand helped with key adjustments, and offensive coordinator Ron Turner stayed with the run after Jones was hurt. Defensive coordinator Ron Rivera’s tirade lit a fire in the run defense.
GRADE: A-
Defense
SECONDARY
Chris Harris had a sack and tackle for loss against Aaron Brooks, set up a Bears TD with a 49-yard return of a fumble. Nathan Vasher intercepted a pass, broke one up and forced a fumble.
GRADE: B
LINEBACKERS
Hunter Hillenmeyer’s second-quarter interception regained momentum after a Bears turnover. Lance Briggs had a game-high 11 tackles and broke up a pass.
GRADE: A-
DEFENSIVE LINE
The Saints gashed several big gainers for 104 rushing yards in the first half. Adewale Ogunleye and Ian Scott broke up passes, Tommie Harris forced a fumble and Alex Brown’s penetration ended a Saints drive late in the fourth quarter.
GRADE: B+
