Saints quarterback Mark Brunell continues to impress in off season workouts. Head coach Sean Payton said Brunell has picked up the offensive system quickly. But the most impressive part of Brunell's off season work has been his arm strength. Brunell, who turns 38 in September, has shown plenty of zip on some deep slants and out routes. Brunell's two most impressive throws today were both dropped in the endzone. Robert Meachem dropped one, Lance Moore the other.
Best play of practice: Cornerback Jason Craft breaking up a pass over the middle intended for rookie wide out Adrian Arrington.
The Saints also had a host of candidates returning punts. Among those vying for the job is former LSU Tiger and Higgins High product Skyler Green. I asked Saints head coach Sean Payton if a player was a good punt returner, would that justify a roster spot? Said Payton, "I think you always have to consider that, yes. If a guy brought something to the table more than what you felt you had. You see teams do that every year."
The Saints special teams were lacking in '07 , something that Payton is determined to fix this season.
Will Smith didn't practice with a toe injury, but the Saints defensive end stayed to work out in OTA's , which are voluntary workouts. Payton was asked if this was a sign something had been worked out contract wise with Smith? Said Payton, "Mickey (GM Loomis) and his agent are working through the contract and trying to sort things out. There's nothing really new to announce."
Games times for LSU's super regional in Baton Rouge against UC Irvine are: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 3 pm, and if necessary Monday at 6 pm.
LSU's football season opener against Appalachian State August 30th at Tiger Stadium will kickoff at 4 pm. Game time was moved to accomodate ESPN. The game will mark the first time the defending 1A champ has met the defending 1AA champ in the season opener the following year.
Ed Daniels
Updated 2:47 pm
Tuesday June 3rd