The 5 Reasons Why the Saints Will Defeat Tampa Bay This Sunday
The New Orleans Saints are atop the NFC South, they're on a five game winning streak, and Marshon Lattimore was just named Defensive Rookie of the Month. Things are all good in Saint land for players, coaches, and fans.
With all that said, I'm here to keep those good vibes going. I'll be providing you with the five reasons why the good times will continue to roll in the Big Easy.
Steve Peloquin will provide you with the five reasons why they won't be victorious this week as we continue to swap back and forth every week.
1). Home Cooking
The game this week will be at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. We know this team and specifically quarterback Drew Brees always seem to play better at home in Louisiana. Speaking of Drew Brees, you just go look at his numbers when he's played at home compared to playing on the road, he definitely performs better at home (some of those home stats are from when he was in San Diego).
2). Underdog, Not a Good Look on Bucs
This week the Saints are favored over the Bucs 2-1 to win the game. According to ESPN's Football Power Index Tampa Bay has yet to win this season when they aren't favored by FPI. Seems like the "experts" are getting things right when they choose the Bucs as underdogs.
3). Jameis Winston's Shoulder Injury
Tampa Bay quarterback, Jamies Winston and his team had high expectations coming into this season and things haven't worked out quite the way they drew it up. Part of the problem has been the inconsistent play of Winston (1,853 yards, 62% Comp. %, 10 TD's, 6 INT's, and 7 Fumbles). He's also dealing with an injury to his right shoulder which hasn't helped matters for him or the team. The injury will hamper his ability to make plays through the air and the defensive backs should take advantage.
4). The Defense Will Dominate
With the injury to Jamies Winston and the way the Saints defense has refocused, if they're going to win this game the defense will make a bunch of big plays. The defensive line will dominate the Bucs offensive line and cause Winston to scramble around and force passes. These forced passes will lead to more passes defended and the potential for interceptions.
5). Third-Down Success
Third down conversions have been a struggle for New Orleans this season as they're successfully completing the down just 38% of the time. If Willie Snead can finally contribute this weekend, Drew Brees should find more success on third downs. In turn that'll allow the offense to stay on the field longer extending drives and allowing the defense to be more fresh when they get on the field.