Mike Triplett, ESPN Staff Writer 9y

QB snapshot: Drew Brees

A quick observation of quarterback Drew Brees and how he played in the New Orleans Saints' 34-27 loss in Week 12:

Believe it or not, Brees is actually on pace to throw for 5,078 yards with 32 touchdowns and a league-best 70.3 completion percentage.

But it’s still easy to see that he’s not playing up to his usual standard. And it’s easy to identify why: the turnovers.

Brees has thrown 11 interceptions and lost two fumbles this year. And it’s not just the volume that’s disturbing -- it’s how incredibly costly they’ve been in huge moments. His interception returned for a touchdown in the third quarter of Monday’s loss to the Baltimore Ravens was the latest example.

Brees has thrown three pick-sixes this year. Only Blake Bortles and Austin Davis have thrown more, according to ESPN Stats & Information.

Brees' accuracy also has been a tick off on some of his deep balls throughout the year and some of his red zone throws Monday night. And I don’t disagree with analysts who say he’s not the same as usual this season.

But I also believe that’s magnified by the fact that the Saints so desperately need Brees to do it all for them. Brees has been pressing too much with the Saints' defense once again playing so poorly (a flashback to 2012 in both regards).

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