BEATEN DREW CAN DRAW COMFORT

DREW BREES lost his brave comeback effort against the Kansas City Chiefs this week but his New Orleans Saints could end up big winners as the play- offs loom.

The 41- year- old quarterback returned after only four games out with multiple fractured ribs and a punctured lung. It was a big gamble but it nearly paid off in the 32- 29 loss to the defending champs. Even though Brees

was on the losing side, he proved he will be fit for Christmas Day’s clash with the Minnesota Vikings and a potential charge to the Super Bowl. He said: “It was great to be back out there with the team just competing again. Obviously, it was tough over the last four weeks. I still have a little way to go. There are some things I am still kind of working on but it is what it is.” With two weekends left in the regular season, the Saints and Chiefs are two of only six teams guaranteed play- off spots. The Pittsburgh Steelers are another but a 27- 17 loss at lowly Cincinnati Bengals has placed extra pressure on Mike Tomlin’s fading team.

After winning their first 11 games, Pitt have lost three straight ahead of Sunday’s visit of the Indianapolis Colts.

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger took his share of the blame and said: “I’m not consistent enough, which affects the offence because the ball is in my hand every play.”

The Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks have booked play- off spots, while in the NFC East even last- placed Philadelphia Eagles could end up top.