FAMILIAR FACES: The Saints offense, which during the past seven years has led the league four times and has never been ranked worse than sixth, has all of its main pieces back. Brees will have running backs Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas and Darren Sproles lining up behind him, Graham at tight end, and veterans Marques Colston and Lance Moore at receiver. Even receiver Robert Meachem is back after a year away in San Diego. Meanwhile, two new receivers, rookie Kenny Stills and second-year pro Nick Toon,Sac ?? Dos Fjallraven Soldes, had productive preseasons.
PROTECTION QUESTION: While the Falcons have talent galore at skill positions, their offensive line is unproven following the retirement of center Todd McClure and the release of right tackle Tyson Clabo in a cost-cutting move. Clabo's projected replacement, Mike Johnson, also was lost for the season with a knee injury. Matt Ryan was sacked five times in a preseason game against Tennessee and run-blocking was inconsistent. Lamar Holmes, who played in only one game as a rookie in 2012, is expected to start at right tackle.
