New Orleans Saints: Way Too Early 2016 Win-Loss Prediction
By Kolby Smith
Week 17 Sunday, January 1st, Noon at Falcons
Jan 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Tim Hightower (34) runs against Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Kroy Biermann (71) during the first half at the Georgia Dome. The Saints defeated the Falcons 20-17. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
The Falcons will look to end this season on a high note and beat their arch rivals. The Falcons will come out and play a really tough game to try and split the season series against the Saints. Julio Jones could very well take this game into his own hands.
For the Saints to sweep the Falcons they HAVE TO keep Matt Ryan under pressure and uncomfortable in the pocket. If they let him stay comfortable in the pocket him and Julio Jones could tear up the Saints defense.
If the passing game is producing, it will open things up for running back Devonta Freeman and that would be bad news for the Saints.
In the end, Delvin Breaux holds Julio Jones to low numbers, and the Saints do just enough in the Georgia Dome to edge out the Falcons, for another season sweep.
Prediction: Saints 24, Falcons 21
Record: 9-7
FINAL ANALYSIS: 9-7, 2nd place in the NFC South — last Wild Card spot in the NFC Playoffs
A record of 9-7 may or may not be just barely enough for the Saints to make it to the post season in a tough NFC.
For the Saints to guarantee themselves of making the playoffs, they more than likely will need to win at least 10 games.
Hopefully, the Saints can prove me wrong and win more than 9, because if not it may be another post season at home for the Black and Gold….