Let’s just say, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Now, this week the New Orleans Saints play host tot he 2-0 Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football. Let’s take a look at both sides of the ball and see how they match up.
Vegas still has New Orleans favored in a high scoring game giving 3 points against the Packers.
Saints Offense vs Packers Defense
On paper this is a matchup that looks like it’ll be a fun one. The Packers rank 10th in total yards allowed. Packers also rank 12th in rushing yards and 13th in passing yards allowed. The Packers have many talented players like the Smith brothers, Jaire Alexander, and Kenny Clark, who is questionable for this contest. This Saints offense has been lackluster to say the least.
The Saints will be leaning on Tre’Quan Smith, Emmanuel Sanders, and Deonte Harris. Emmanuel Sanders may have the toughest match up against an elite cornerback if he draws Jaire Alexander’s coverage.
I will be keeping my eyes on Tre’Quan Smith, though. Smith had a decent ive catches for 86 yards against the Raiders, playing the Michael Thomas role. Sean Payton said earlier this week they got a plan for Smith so I’m excited to see what he brings.
Saints Defense vs Packers Offense
It’s been no secret that Aaron Rodgers has looked like his former MVP self these first two weeks. Granted, he’s played a Vikings team that has been depleted defensively and the Lions.
It is safe to say this Packers team will be put to the test against a top 10 defense this week. The Packers may not have Davante Adams to help them move the ball.
I’m actually hoping Adams will play because playing against great receivers brings out the best in Marshon Lattimore. If he’s not able to go, we will see the Saints defend against Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Allen Lazard, and Malik Taylor. Janoris Jenkins has looked the best out of the trio of Jenkins, Lattimore and C.J. Gardner-Johnson. No matter what receivers take the field, I expect to see Jenkins dominate his match up.
Defensive end Cam Jordan needs to bring the pressure often with both Trey Hendrickson and Marcus Davenport listed as questionable. New Orleans will need Jordan to step up now more than ever.
Prediction
I think it’s just tradition when Drew Brees has a bad game and every national media expert claims he is done and washed and can’t throw a football down the field.
This wasn’t the problem versus the Raiders but now Drew is home in a primetime game playing against a 2 -0 team.
Having said that, I think this offense will show up and really remind the league who the top dog in the NFC is. I have the Saints-34 Packers-30
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