Saints' LB Jonathan Vilma denies accusations of dirty play – NFL News
As Vikings running back Adrian Peterson became the latest player to accuse the New Orleans Saints defenders of playing dirty linebacker Jonathan Vilma has come out to refute the accusations.
Speaking to the New Orleans Saints official website the linebacker rubbished the accusations of dirty play.
"Fair or unfair, it really doesn't bother me," Vilma said. "We're an aggressive defense, we've always been an aggressive defense. I'd rather be labeled that than (not aggressive). We don't do anything intentionally or maliciously.”
The Saints were playing the Vikings in their game week 15 encounter on Sunday. Led by quarterback Drew Brees the National Football Conference South Division leaders decimated the opposition running out 42-20 winners. Brees was
exceptional throwing five touchdown passes and played one of his finest games with many analysts calling for Brees to be voted this season’s Most Valued Player.
The Saints defence showed that they were one of the best in the league. Adrian Peterson who has been the one shining light in a poor season for the Vikings was surprisingly subdued. Peterson rushed for just 60 yards during the
game for ten carries and had no touchdowns to his name.
After the game Peterson looked furious and blamed the Saints players for targeting his ankle during tackles but Vilma had another explanation for that saying.
"A guy like Adrian Peterson, he's tough enough to tackle. He had a high ankle sprain, but this guy's so elusive, getting him around the ankles is a good thing. It's tough to get him down. It's unfortunate he thinks we're aiming
for his ankles. He's that good of a talent.”
Peterson was playing his first game after a three week layoff due to an ankle sprain and it was no surprise that he was incensed with what he saw as Saints players attempting to injure him again. The running back after the game
joined the ranks of increasing number of players accusing the Saints of trying to injure opponents during games.
Saints Coach Sean Payton has also denied any dirty play and that he has not witnessed any incidents or proofs to show that his side try to injure opponents.
The war of words marred what was one of New Orleans Saints most complete performances. The Vikings never stood a chance even with their star players back in the line up and were completely outclassed.
The Vikings have now gone 2-12 this season and with just two games left in the regular season can go on to become the worst team in the franchise’s history.
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