Eli Apple is shaky at CB, but this might be the best defense of the Payton era. The 2009 SB team had a nice D but relied on getting turnovers. This D is a force. Giving up 27 points and over 400 yards passing (over 500 yards total) is what you call a force? 20 of those points and 244 yards (so half their total yardage) came in the 4th quarter which the Saints entered with a three touchdown lead. Seahawks were held to 7 points in the 1st three quarters. Saints D was pretty much in prevent that entire quarter. It's also relative as well. The Saints D has been pretty bad historically in the Payton era, so in terms of recent Saints history, even a good defense is a force in our eyes. So forgive the hyperbole.