Saints recognize 'challenge' of containing Rams' Donald

If the New Orleans Saints are to advance past Sunday's NFC Championship Game, they will almost certainly need to neutralize Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald.

However, it's a task that head coach Sean Payton and his Saints know is easier said than done.

"It's hard to say you're going to keep him in check," Payton said Wednesday, according to NFL.com's Herbie Teope. "He's played as well at that three-technique position that we've seen in years.

"I mean, arguably and I don't know even if it's an argument, he's the best defensive player today in football. His numbers, his production, it shows up in the run game, it shows up in the passing game and it's a challenge."

Saints Pro Bowl tackle Terron Armstead also lauded Donald's consistency and the unique challenge he presents.

"It's hard to argue with what's he's been able to do these past few years," Armstead said. "You can just watch the tape. Some guys get a name and you go back and watch the tape, and they have had success in certain situations. But him, week after week, play after play, the tape don't lie. The film don't lie. He's a guy that can let his film speak for itself."

Donald is the reigning Defensive Player of the Year and the overwhelming favorite to win the award again this season.

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