The matchup between the New Orleans Saints and the Detroit Lions is the most intriguing game of Week 7. Right now, these teams are playing like polar opposites.
The New Orleans offense is still one of the top units on that side of the ball. The running game is solid. Drew Brees has already thrown for 1574 yards and has a 68.8 completion percentage. He also has nine touchdowns and six interceptions through Week 6 because of their bye.
Brees has many weapons and uses them effectively.
Other than the Dallas Cowboys game, they are scoring enough to win games. The Saints’ record up to this point is 2-3, and should be better. It is because they have one major issue, their defense.
Their defense is in the bottom third of the league. It was very good last year, but for whatever reason, it has been a catastrophe. Rob Ryan has been unable to fix the weaknesses and it is killing the Saints. The secondary in particular has been very shaky.
On top of that, they have to play without Jairus Byrd. Detroit’s issues are on the opposite side.
Detroit’s offense has struggled ever since Week 2. Matthew Stafford has looked shaky because the offensive line has been horrible. They are giving up too many sacks and Stafford is running for his life. There have also been injuries to Calvin Johnson, Reggie Bush and Joique Bell.
Of course, any mention of the Lions wouldn’t be complete without bringing up the kicking fiasco. They have missed too many field goals and it has cost them. This unit just looks disjointed all around.
Fortunately for the Lions, their defense has bailed them out.
DC Teryl Austin has turned this group around. It is the best defense in the league as of Week 6. Their big strength is their front seven, which generates pressure constantly. Their performance against the Vikings last week was an example of what this team is capable of.
The secondary has also played much better this season. They aren’t giving up nearly as many big plays as they were last year. It has been a remarkable turnaround.
Who wins the game? It should a close one. I am going with the Detroit Lions. The bye should have the Saints ready to go. Brees will play well.
However, Stafford should be able to rebound this week, especially against a vulnerable defense.
Prediction: Detroit wins 27-24.
For current news, sports, entertainment, politics and more please follow us at @TheInscriberMag, @InscriberSports and @TheInscriberNFL. Like us on Facebook: The Inscriber : Digital Magazine #INSC #INSCMagazine