Saints prepare for life without talented RB
Published: October 20th, 2008 | Tags: New Orleans Saints, Reggie Bush
With 294 yards rushing and 366 yards receiving this season, Reggie Bush leads the New Orleans Saints in both categories.
So, how does coach Sean Payton expect to replace their all-purpose running back?
“We’ll have to make some adjustments offensively and some other guys are going to have to step up and play along with Deuce (McAllister), be it Aaron Stecker or Pierre Thomas,” Payton said after his team arrived in London for Sunday’s game against the Chargers. “But he’s a dynamic player. It’s disappointing. I’m sure he’s as disappointed as anyone that he’s not here.”
Bush injured his left knee on a punt return late in the first half of the Saints’ 30-7 loss to the Panthers. He reversed field on his run, which ended when he stepped out of bounds on the Carolina sideline. He seemed to pull up a bit and favor his left leg after that. NFL Network’s Adam Schefter reported that Bush will be sidelined three to four weeks and will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery.
“From a timing standpoint, it falls with this game and then a bye weekend,” Payton said. “So, there is a little bit of time there for him as it pertains to his recovery.”
Quarterback Drew Brees hopes the Saints offense won’t miss a beat with Bush sidelined.
“Obviously, we’ll miss Reggie like we’ll miss any guy who is that productive for us offensively,” Brees said. “Early on it was Marques (Colston) missing time and (Jeremy) Shockey. Guys stepped up and did a great job. I felt like we kept rolling.”