Atlanta Falcons must stop Brandin Cooks, Mark Ingram to beat Saints

Oct 26, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Brandin Cooks (10) celebrates a touchdown in the first quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports

Brandin Cooks

With the departure of Jimmy Graham and Kenny Stills, second-year player Brandin Cooks has become the main receiving target in New Orleans. He has been targeted a team-high 40 times and has brought in 25 for 322 yards.

Anyone that has seen Cooks play can attest to the speed and game changing ability that he has. He is having a productive second year and is only 228 receiving yards away from reaching his 2014 total. If Cooks’ production is limited on Thursday night it will force Brees to look to wide receiver Willie Snead and tight end Ben Watson in the passing game.

This will also force the Saints to utilize their rushing attack which will be battling against the No. 3 rushing defense in the league. Taking Cooks out of the game will play a key role in a victory on Thursday night.

Season stats: 25 receptions, 322 yards, 1 TD

Next: Keeping it on the ground