POSITION EDGE

Ravens rushing vs. Saints run defense -- SAINTS -- The Ravens couldn't pound the ball against the Saints' average run defense. Running back Jamal Lewis, who was averaging 4.4 yards a carry entering the game, was limited to a 2.8-yard average (17 carries, 48 yards). His longest run was 9 yards.

Ravens passing vs. Saints pass defense -- SAINTS -- Jeff Blake became the first Ravens quarterback in 28 games to throw for 300 yards, but most came in garbage time. He finished 18-for-39 for 316 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He got no help from the receivers, who dropped seven passes. But Blake's sixth fumble this season -- while simply cocking his arm -- set the tone for the Ravens' error-filled game.

Saints rushing vs. Ravens run defense -- SAINTS -- Saints running back Deuce McAllister wasn't fully healthy because of a sprained ankle, but he rushed for 127 yards on 32 attempts. The Ravens, who had surrendered just 10 rushing touchdowns in 12 previous games, allowed McAllister to reach the end zone three times.

Saints passing vs. Ravens pass defense -- SAINTS -- Although the Ravens held the Saints to 16-for-33 passing, they couldn't stop quarterback Aaron Brooks from making the big plays and couldn't get backup Jake Delhomme out of rhythm. Brooks hit the Ravens for passes of 28, 39 and 20 yards, and Delhomme connected on seven of eight passes after taking over in the third quarter.

Special teams -- SAINTS -- After leading the Ravens to victory the past two weeks, the special teams cost them yesterday. The botched fake punt by Dave Zastudil in the first quarter led to the Saints' first touchdown. Later, another punt by Zastudil was blocked.

NICKEL PACKAGE

Thumbs up

Todd Heap. The second-year tight end is the Ravens' only consistent receiver. He had five catches for 87 yards, including a phenomenal 43-yard grab in which he leaped over Saints cornerback Fred Thomas.

Thumbs down

Protecting the ball. The Ravens turned the ball over five times, which were converted into 24 points by the Saints.

Stat of the game

7. Drops by Ravens receivers, as compared to 18 catches.

Quotable

"Knowing the Steelers lost, I wanted it even more. It was that much closer to me. We didn't get it done. Man, we missed out on a golden opportunity."

-- Ravens linebacker Peter Boulware on failing to close to within a half game of Pittsburgh, which was upset yesterday by Houston.

Trainer's room

Cornerback Chris McAlister (cramps) left early in the second quarter to receive fluids and returned.