New Orleans Saints vs. Minnesota Vikings: 5 Things To Look For

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SANTA CLARA, CA – NOVEMBER 6: Wide receiver Michael Thomas /

4. Michael Thomas As The #1 WR

One of the more interesting offseason stories was the trade of wide receiver Brandin Cooks from the Saints to the New England Patriots.

Second-year receiver Michael Thomas was the main reason why.

As a rookie in 2016, Thomas led the Saints in receptions (92) and receiving touchdowns (9). Thomas was ninth in the entire league in receiving yards with 1,137 yards, which also led all rookie receivers. With Cooks out of the equation down in the Bayou, Thomas is now the main and Saints quarterback Drew Brees has plenty of faith in the 6’3 pass catcher.

Against the Vikings he will see plenty of Vikings corners Xavier Rhodes and Trae Waynes as they try to neutralize one of the best passing games in the NFL. What is key here is whether or not Thomas is ready for that type of responsibility. Last season, he was flanked by Cooks and 72-catch receiver Willie Snead.

For this game, Cooks is in New England and Snead is suspended which means all eyes will be on Thomas.

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