METAIRIE, La. (BRPROUD) — The New Orleans defense looks much different than it did a season ago in the takeaway category. The Saints lead the league in interceptions with 12 and takeaways with 18.
Just nine games into the season, the Saints have five more interceptions and four more takeaways than they did in 2022.
Improving in the takeaway category was a big emphasis in offseason and training camp. New Orleans says the big x-factor from last season to this season is just players finishing the plays.
“I think we’ve probably done a better job of putting an emphasis on it,” said Dennis Allen, New Orleans Saints head coach. “Part of it is I think guys have made the plays that they have an opportunity to make. I know last year we didn’t have a lot of interceptions, but there was, probably a dozen or so that we had opportunities to make, make plays and we didn’t make them. But I think guys are making the plays this year.”
“We’re just making plays were making the ones that are coming our way and we’re putting ourselves in good position about being in coverage,” said Alontae Taylor, Saints cornerback. “You know, the rush is getting there, getting, allowing us to, you know, have pressure on the quarterback. So, we’re just capitalizing on those opportunities that are coming our way. And this year we’re actually catching the ball. So, that’s all that matters.”
The Saints defense has another prime opportunity to create more turnovers against a Vikings team that has turned over the ball the second most in the league this season.
