2017 NFL Power Rankings Week 2: Rams make major jump after crushing Colts

22. New Orleans Saints (22) (Play Monday Night)

All eyes will be on Adrian Peterson when the New Orleans Saints take on the Minnesota Vikings in the national spotlight during Monday Night Football since one can only imagine how excited the running back is to face his former team. Releasing the veteran running back to save some money was obviously a tough decision for the Vikings, and now Peterson looks to prove that he still has plenty of gas left in the old tank to be an effective running back in the NFL.

Even if Peterson’s currently listed as the No. 2 running back at the moment behind Mark Ingram, nobody would be surprised to see him eventually work his way into the starting role based off his history. Throughout his career, Peterson has always been the type of running back who seems extra motivated with his back against the wall, which means the Vikings could be in trouble when facing their former superstar.

Then again, no matter what type of impact Peterson and Drew Brees make on the offensive side of the football, the real difference maker is going to come down to the defense. It’s no secret the Saints’ offense has been one of the most dangerous in the league, but poor play on defense has held them back from finishing above .500 in each of the last three seasons.