The Louisiana Superdome seemed prepared to burst in 2006 when the New Orleans Saints returned home. With a new coach, new quarterback, and a top ranked running back in Reggie Bush, things were hopping in the Crescent City. And it all worked. The Saints went on to produce the best offense in the NFL, won the NFC South, and shocked the league by advancing to the NFC Championship. Suddenly, the “Aint’s” were hot.

So fans can be forgiven for being a little disappointed as the 2007 NFL regular season closed its doors. New Orleans struggled to an 0-4 start, gained momentum at 4-4, but never reached solid footing as they finished at 7-9. It was a hard letdown for fans who had pinned their hopes on their first Super Bowl appearance.

Nonetheless this Saints team has huge potential. In a tough division with the Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New Orleans can run with anyone. Keeping their backfield healthy, or finding quality depth, would be a big plus. As for Reggie Bush, he seems more effective as a pass receiver and sweep man than as a pound it out back but there’s no denying he’s a game breaker. Facing the reality of the NFL in 2007 should make the Saints a better team in the years to come.