I’m starting to change my mind about domes.  Because if the Super Bowl was played today, the NFL might’ve had to postpone it due to the weather.  OK, so that would never happen.  But I’m pretty sure Noah and the Ark would be comfortable in South Florida this week.  In fact, my SUV almost disappeared in a puddle during the 10 minutes I spent at the store.  In case you’re not getting my drift, it rained a lot.

1. While it’s fun to joke about, the rain could become a big factor.  Three years ago, the Colts resorted to the run game because of the rain and it worked out just fine as they beat the Bears.  This time around, they have no run game, but the Saints do.  Considering how well-balanced New Orleans’ offense is, the weather could be a big boost for them.
2. Dwight Freeney’s ankle will be talked about more than any other body part this week.  The debate has begun about how serious his injury is.  The Colts are calling it a sprain, while a source said it’s a torn ligament.  I’m not a doctor, nor do I play one on tv, but if it’s torn, I don’t think Freeney can play.  If he can’t play, that’s another big plus for the Saints. 
3. Sean Payton isn’t going to provide bulletin board material.  He spoke for 15  minutes and I’m not sure he actually said anything.  He was happy the team was able to get a workout in and did express the belief the fields will dry up well.  Let me know when you’ve calmed down long enough to continue reading, I’ll wait.
4. However, Payton did something that gave an insight into how he’s handling the hoopla.  In preparing to greet the players that weren’t already down for the Pro Bowl, he decided it would be funny to act like a bellhop at the hotel.  And he convinced Drew Brees and the others to join him.  Something tells me this group won’t be tight come Sunday.
5. Brees is a great public speaker.  Of course, stepping to the podium after Payton will make anybody seem animated, but Brees was at ease and enjoyed his 15 minutes, smiling, laughing and answering all the questions will real answers.  In case you were wondering, he enjoyed his time as a bellhop, thinks the Colts are a model organization and he won’t fall into the trap of trying to be Peyton Manning.
6. And he also knows how lucky he is.  In 2006, he was a free agent and it came down to Miami and New Orleans.  In what he referred to as a defining moment in both his career and his life, he ended up with the Saints.  You never know what might’ve happened if he became a Dolphin.  But he knows he’s playing in the Super Bowl on Sunday.  It’s better to be lucky than good.  Brees has been both.

-Jake Stevens

THERE IT IS!

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