NEW ORLEANS NIGHTMARE

If "something happens" to Drew Brees this is who takes over.

After all this is the biggest NFL weekend traditionally and this year's matchups are as good as it gets. And as usual most all the "experts" are not about to stick their necks out. Even though they are "my" team's biggest rival I must pull for the NFC Western Conference champion San Francisco 49ers.

And let's not beat around the bush: the team who can take out the opposing quarterback usually has an instant advantage. I have nothing as Mr. Brees as a person and he is one hell of a ballplayer. But now he must be a matador in the mud playing against a strong defensive unit in a town praying for a return to the Frisco teams heyday.

So this is a little note that I can always erase if I am dead wrong: Across the line from the Saints QB will be Isaac Sopoaga, former defensive star at the University of Hawaii, and a full wrecking crew.

Would I bet against the Saints? Immaterial since I don't gamble. So let's be real: I've attended hundreds of NFL games in person. People holler, "Kill the quarterback!" They don't say, "Have a nice day." At least I hope so tomorrow in the city by the bay.

PS - Congratulations to the St. Louis pro football franchise for doing something sane for the first time in many a season.