It’s currently 21-14 Saints after they ran back the opening kickoff of the 2nd half, but it was 14-14 at the end of the half.  Surprised?  I was at the comparative yardage, which remained fairly equal.  I was shocked at the Rams passing attack, which was very good (except for Bulger’s INT).  But what I wasn’t shocked at was Steven Jackson having 100 yards.  13 Rams 1st downs.  They outgained the Saints, and held the ball for 5 minutes more.  More passing yards for Bulger than Brees.  And 2 offensive TDs.  Here are some first half notes:

- The offensive line has done a great job of blocking, both run and pass.  Specifically, there was a dumpoff to Jackson where he made one guy miss and was wrapped up by like 7 Saints…and the offensive line came out and blasted the pile forward.  They’re firing out and really being aggressive.

-The defensive line has done a great job against the run, really making it hard for the Saints to get more than 3 yards or so on many carries.

- O.J. Atogwe made a tremendous play, getting a pick on a well-defended ball by David Vobora (and James Butler just got a pick in the 3rd quarter!)

- Brandon Gibson, the WR received in the Will Witherspoon trade, is having a great game for the Rams.  Perhaps Billy Devaney does know what he’s doing with personnel decisions.

- Bulger has played his best game of the year, keeping the ball safe but being aggressive.  Very few missed throws.

- Jackson = SUPERMAN.  Playing his heart out, dragging defenders, bowling through guys, Howie Long said if Adrian Peterson is 1A, Steven Jackson is 1B.  And I’d wager that AD’s fumblitis and lack of receiving ability puts SJ above him by a hair.

- Easily the best game the Rams have played.  They’ve been consistent, aggressive, competitive, and are playing to win.  They currently have 17 points, and they average 9.6.  Score is 21-17 Saints right now, with 7:00 left in the 3rd Quarter.  Go Rams!  I’ll be back with a end-game wrapup.