NFL

Patriots (7-3):

Offense:
Points Per Game: 29 (3rd)
Total Yards/GM: 416.1 (2nd)
Rush Yards/GM: 113.8 (16th)
Pass Yards/GM: 302.3 (2nd)

Defense:
Points Per Game: 16.4 (2nd)
Total Yards/GM: 296.7 (7th)
Rush Yards/GM: 109.4 (14th)
Pass Yards/GM: 187.3 (6tht)

Saints (10-0):

Offense:
Points Per Game: 36.9 (1st)
Total Yards/GM: 420.5 (1st)
Rush Yards/GM: 154.3 (5th)
Pass Yards/GM: 266.2 (6th)

Defense:
Points Per Game: 20.4 (13th)
Total Yards/GM: 330.6 (17th)
Rush Yards/GM: 115.7 (20th)
Pass Yards/GM: 214.9 (15th)

What is at Stake?

Despite gaining confidence and believing that you’re the best team in the NFL, this game actually has major playoff implications. Not in the sense of each teams respective chances of making the playoffs, but seeding. The Patriots are looking to keep pace with the San Diego Chargers and Bengals for the No. 2 overall seed, with an 8-3 record. The Saints are looking to stay one game ahead of the up-start Vikings for home field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. Considering that there is a number of tough, dangerous teams in each league, having home-field advantage will be key to reaching the Super Bowl.

Key Matchup:

The Saints three-headed monster at running back versus the Patriots 20th ranked rush defense. Just kidding, the clear matchup is how each team can deal with the gun slingers. Statistically, the saints have the better defense but how wants to face Brady on turf?

The Skinny:

The New England Patriots are simply too good and efficient on offense and will keep the ball away from the dangerous Saints. Don’t be surprised if the Patriots start the game trying to pound the ball and control the clock. Until the Saints prove that they can win the big games and put up these gouty numbers on offense against an elite team, my money is on the Pats

Prediction: New England 28, New Orleans 24.