Guess who’s back, back again. Sooner than many people expected, New Orleans Saints right guard Cesar Ruiz was already back at practice as a full participant.
This is after the sixth-year man suffered a high ankle sprain during the week four matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Ruiz’s return to practice at this time indicates that he is progressing faster than expected in his recovery from the injury, which usually takes 4-6 weeks to heal. “Physically, I’m feeling great, feeling blessed. By the grace of God, man, I was able to get back there on that field,” the former first-round pick said. “Happy to be back out there.”
Ruiz, who’s expected to start against the New England Patriots on Sunday, was asked what it’s like jumping back into things. “I wasn’t out that long, I was just in the meetings and stuff last week every day,” he said to the media. “I’m just keeping things going.”
On Sunday, the Saints offensive line will have their work cut out for them
At just the right time, the Saints offensive line got healthy, because the New England Patriots are coming to town. Their defensive line, which includes the likes of Christian Barmore, Khyris Tonga, and Milton Williams, is one of the most menacing in the league, and are ranked fourth in the league in run defense (428 yards allowed, 85.6 per game).
Thankfully the offensive line is well aware of New England’s defensive front and says that they have to establish the run game early. “They’re a talented front up front. Good guys in the interior,” right guard Cesar Ruiz said. “There’ll be a big emphasis to be able to move the ball, run the ball and get thigs going.”
On the left side of the line, there will be a big difference in terms of experience. Patriots star edge rusher Christian Barmore, who is entering his fifth year in the National Football League, typically attacks from the left. Kelvin Banks Jr will be the man lining up in front of Barmore.
Kickoff against the Patriots is set for noon on Oct. 12. Originally, it was scheduled for a 3:25 p.m. but was flexed with San Francisco 49ers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers game about a fortnight ago.
