Sure, they’re battered and they’ve lost two in a row. The number one receiver, the number one tight end, and the starting fullback were all out. One of the mainstays on the offensive line was suspended this week and another had been hurt last week. No team had been able to throw for more than 200 yards on the 49ers this season. The two players responsible for four touchdowns last week were held to only 39 total yards. But none of that made any difference as New Orleans stayed perfect with their second win at home this season.
The Saints started the first quarter with the ball but were only able to get it to midfield. The 49ers then drove down to score three points on a 47-yard field goal, their first of three in the game. The second possession for New Orleans ended when Brees threw his fourth interception of the season. However, the defense held tough, not allowing San Francisco to make a first down.
Then the team seemed to get life from both the defense and the insertion of RB Deuce McAllister in the offense. Rookie DT Sedrick Ellis got his first sack of his career, the second of the day for the team. DE Will Smith’s sacked JT O’Sullivan again on the next play which forced a fumble that was recovered by LB Jonathan Vilma. In the first half, New Orleans kept San Francisco from converting their third downs as they went 0 for 5 and out of the end zone. The defense ended the day with six sacks, two by DE Charles Grant, and two interceptions.
