The New Orleans Saints are projected as 14.5-point underdogs to the Los Angeles Rams at the time of writing this article. Although a quarterback change was announced recently to try and jump-start the black and gold offense, it is the defense of New Orleans that will face an uphill battle trying to contain a high-powered Rams’ offense.
Longtime NFL QB Matthew Stafford is in the midst of his 17th season in the NFL, and his fifth with the Rams. Although aging, he seems to do so like fine wine. Stafford is top-ten
in passing yards, tied for first in touchdown passes, and has thrown just two interceptions this year.
Los Angeles plays a great style of complementary football. Not only do they have one of the better defenses in the league, but they also possess the sixth-highest-ranked offense to this point in the season. The Rams average more than 360 yards per contest while putting up a staggering 25 points.
Stafford’s favorite pass catcher, Puka Nacua, is expected to make his return to the football field when the Rams take on New Orleans. The star wide receiver had missed one game in Week 7 with an ankle injury after exiting the previous weekend early. After Los Angeles’ bye, he is set to make an impactful return and push the Rams towards the playoffs.
Despite missing a game, Nacua still ranks third across the league in receptions and fourth in yards.
The Saints’ defense will certainly have its hands full with all of the weapons Los Angeles has. Defensive anchor Demario Davis already leads New Orleans in tackles by a wide margin, but his total is sure to grow after Sunday’s duel. While he does not have any sacks as of now, Davis has 20 more tackles than any other Saint.
Since starting their three-game losing streak, New Orleans has lost the turnover battle by a combined 9-2. Just two takeaways over the past three games is not going to earn your struggling offense much of an opportunity to put points on the board.
While New Orleans matches up well with Los Angeles defensively, the Saints have not played up to the standards of their top-15 ranking on that side of the ball. Brandon Staley’s group is giving up more than 26 points per game.
Unfortunately for members of Who Dat Nation, I do not believe the bleeding will stop in Week 9. Los Angeles is a heavy favorite and for good reason. New Orleans is reeling fast, and the bye week cannot come fast enough. I want to see a win and great effort from the team as much as the next fan, but I’m feeling a little pessimistic about this upcoming game.
