The New Orleans Saints should have a tough time extending their winning streak against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 14.
The 49ers boast one of the best defensive groups in the league and have been in a class all their own when it comes to defending the pass in the 2019 NFL season. They are currently giving up a mere 134.3 yards per game while allowing only two teams to top 200 yards through the air.
Not only does San Francisco provide consistent pressure upfront, but the secondary has also done a stellar job of holding out long enough for their pass rush to get to the quarterback. It is safe to say that they will be emphasizing trying to contain wide receiver Michael Thomas in the passing game.
Thomas has been nothing short of spectacular in the 2019 campaign, and the hype he generated for an MVP bid is indicative of the respect he has garnered throughout the league. Unfortunately, his prolific numbers put in perspective how much of a drop-off there is in the receiving corps after him.
The Saints do not boast very much firepower outside of Thomas, which has resulted in quarterback Drew Brees relying on check-downs with running back Alvin Kamara more often than not. Given Brees' affinity for building on the short game, it could be time for tight end Jared Cook to enjoy another breakout performance.
Cook got off to a slow start in New Orleans as he tried to find his footing in the new offense after signing a two-year deal during the offseason. His numbers paled in comparison to the career-year he had been coming off of with the Oakland Raiders.
Fortunately, Cook has now managed to kick things up a notch in recent weeks after hauling in 11 receptions for 217 yards and two touchdowns over the last three games. The fact that his resurgence helped get a winning streak going indicates that this could potentially be a blueprint to success for this offense.
Trying to rely too heavily on the run could stall the offense while emphasizing Brees dropping back does not bode well against a 49ers team that is second in the NFL in sacks (45). As a result, the Saints will need to rely on a balanced approach to take advantage of their opportunities against this formidable defense.
Although getting Cook going could be much easier said than done, it may be the only way for New Orleans to spoil San Francisco's road trip.
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