The defensive adjustments in the second half of the Saints win demonstrated what’s been wrong with the defense through four games. The team lacks the talent to generate pressure with a four-man rush, but the injuries to the secondary have handcuffed Dennis Allen from aggressive play-calling and blitzes.
After blitzing on only 17 percent of passing plays in the first half, Allen sent pressure on 50 percent of passes in the second. The difference, while not earth shattering was clear. The team was able to somewhat take Philip Rivers and the Chargers offense out of their rhythm.
Now, to be clear, it still wasn’t a pretty picture.