Sep 26th 2008 1:45PM by Tom Mantzouranis (author feed)
Filed under: Bears, Bills, Browns, Cowboys, Lions, Saints, Texans, Titans, NFL Fans

The Saints have been debacled by injuries so far this year; one-fifth of the roster appeared on this week’s injury report. Nesbit’s suspension makes him the 11th starter from the presumed opening day roster to miss time this year. That being said, while it never helps to lose a starter, Nesbit’s injury opens the door for coaches to get a look at Carl Nicks, the one-time Nebraska right tackle they drafted in the fifth round this year. Nicks was thought generally to have second- or third-round talent, but some trouble he got into in college, causing him to be banned from Nebraska’s pro day, caused him to drop. He was converted to left guard in the offseason and coaches rave about the athletic ability he has for his size (6′5”, 343). Nesbit has been the weakest link on a line that has really performed poorly in the run game, so seeing what Nicks can do might prove to give the line a spark.

As far as the receivers are concerned, Robert Meachem is going to get increased looks, and rightfully so. He’s only got three catches in two games, but they’ve totaled 105 yards and a touchdown, and all have been for first downs. Each catch has showed a flair for the ability to make plays. The Saints always find a way to move the ball through the air, so they’ll put together a good enough attack to hold them over, but Meachem will work his way into the forefront. By the way, the Saints have San Francisco, Minnesota, and Oakland in the next few weeks, so their schedule is pretty favorable while everyone gets healthy.Continue Reading