Saints fans should feel great about 2008

New Orleans Saints fans should really be looking forward to next season. Here’s why:

The Saints' defense will only improve through the draft and free agency.

Starters like Drew Brees, Deuce McAllister and Reggie Bush will return to lead one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses.

And their 2008 schedule looks great.

Only FOUR of the Saints’ opponents next season had a winning record in 2007. Even this season’s injury-riddled team could have made the playoffs with the schedule they have next season. There’s NO WAY the Saints won’t be in the playoffs in 2008.

Take a look at the Saints’ 2008 schedule. (Each opponent’s 2007 record is listed.)

Home:

Atlanta Falcons (4-12)

Carolina Panthers (7-9)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)

Green Bay Packers (13-3)

Minnesota Vikings (8-8)

San Francisco 49ers (5-11)

Oakland Raiders (4-12)

San Diego Chargers (11-5)

Away:

Atlanta Falcons (4-12)

Carolina Panthers (7-9)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7)

Chicago Bears (7-9)

Detroit Lions (7-9)

Washington Redskins (9-7)

Denver Broncos (7-9)

Kansas City Chiefs (4-12)