The New Orleans Saints own a rich history that reflects the unique character of their hometown—always colorful, sometimes sinful, and utterly unpredictable. The Saints are the NFL’s lovable Fleur de Losers. They are the league’s version of the Chicago Cubs, a team blessed with more colorful stories and compelling anecdotes than victories or championships. They have won just one playoff game in the history of the franchise and along the way set the precedent for bad trades and ill-advised draft picks. Their past is so sordid that owner Tom Benson ordered the first 19 years removed from the media guide. Despite their struggles, the Saints are adored and worshipped by their fans like few other teams in the league. Their diehard followers are resilient, passionate, and eternally optimistic. In Tales from the Saints Sideline, author Jeff Duncan chronicles the flamboyant history of the franchise, its highs and lows, the great coaches and players, and colorful characters that have made it one of the most interesting clubs in NFL history.
Tales from the Saints Sideline covers the bumbling early years under freewheeling owner John Mecom, the disappointing reigns of Hank Stram and Bum Phillips, the rise to the NFL elite under Jim Mora and Jim Finks, the misguided and madcap three seasons under Coach Mike Ditka, and the return to respectability under the fiery and headstrong Jim Haslett. Fans can relive the highs and lows and get the inside story from former Saints greats like Mora, Archie Manning, Morten Andersen, and Pat Swilling. Like New Orleans, the Saints have encountered their share of setbacks and problems, but above all, they are never, ever boring.
