Bonus day:
The Saints say they got a "bonus day" of practice this week as they get ready for their match up with the New York Giants. Because they were off over the weekend, after playing last Thursday, the Saints did work out on their normal off day – Monday.
"We have an opportunity to do something special this weekend against the defending Super Bowl champions," said Saints defensive back Jabari Greer.
Bounty hearings:
Former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue wrapped up bounty appeals hearings this week in New Orleans. Reports say he will likely rule next week. Coach Joe Vitt was among those who testified on the behalf of defensive end Will Smith and linebacker Jonathan Vilma. Vitt missed Monday's practice to testify. Offensive line coach Aaron Kromer ran the practice in his stead. The Saints won't use it as an excuse, but the bounty saga has definitely zapped some energy from this team.
Improved Defense:
What might have been just as disheartening as the loss to the Falcons was the fact that the Saints defense played their best game of the season, holding the Falcons to 1 of 11 on third down and forcing 5 straight three and outs.
"We're trying to get to good, when we get to good, we're trying to get great, and then we want to be the greatest; we always want to improve," Saints defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said.
