We had the Saints last week because the Saints had a true playoff atmosphere thanks to Sean Payton returning from bountygate. The truth is despite being as strong of a spot play as gamblers will ever see in week 1, they went down to the wire before escaping.

The Falcons outplayed them in total yards 419-367 and yards per play 7.1 to 6.5. Now they face a letdown hitting the road of a close home game to hated rivals. If anything, they showed last years unimpressive season was not an aberration.

On the other hand we all know how Tampa completely blew last weeks game, but should have little problem getting juiced for their home opener against an overrated foe.

From a fans standpoint, the Buccaneers made several dumb mistakes. From a handicapping standpoint, they made very correctable ones. Linebacker Lavonte David was flagged for hitting quarterback Geno Smith out of bounds, which set up New Yorks game-winning field goal. Safeties Mark Barron and Dashon Goldson also were hit with 15-yard penalties for illegal hits.

Tampa was without LG Carl Nicks. He is making progress and may return to the fold for the Saints game. They may also get back FB Erik Lorig, another key blocker.