Saints Alive

This will be the biggest threat to 10--0 New Orleans's chances of a perfect season. Before dominating rookie quarterback Josh Freeman in Tampa last week, the Saints' defense had given up 442, 371 and 434 total yards in three straight games. That—plus the fact that New Orleans's secondary was minus four cornerbacks in the second half against the Bucs because of injuries—must have Tom Brady licking his chops. But I have faith that safety Darren Sharper(below) will make plays over the top against Brady and that the Saints, who have worked new weapons Robert Meacham and David Thomas into the scoring mix, can keep up with New England. I expect a 70-point shootout, and the best Monday-night game in years.

New Orleans, 37--33

PHOTO

HEINZ KLUETMEIER (SHARPER)