“Wild West Shootout”: Saints vs. Cardinals Preview and Prediction
By Bob Rose
Sep 22, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA;New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) makes a throw under pressure by Arizona Cardinals defensive end John Abraham (55) and defensive end Calais Campbell (93) in the second half of their game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Final Analysis and Prediction
Nine out of the Saints 13 games have been decided by less than a touchdown, with New Orleans losing six of those contests.
Weird statistical tidbit; the Saints have held 7 opponents to 25 points or less, but have amazingly only won three of those games.
Despite both teams’ offensive inconsistencies in recent weeks, both teams have the capability to score points in bunches. Arizona has a lot of defensive talent, and the Saints defense has been on a roll, so don’t be surprised to see a handful of turnovers forced on both sides, with perhaps even a defensive score or two.
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Drew Brees and his offensive unit are far too talented to be held in check for three weeks in a row, even against this defense.
Additionally, the Cardinals will have some major questions to address at the quarterback position this off season, and will likely move on from the veteran Palmer.
Odd things tend to happen during late season games in the Arizona desert; and this game will be a “seesaw” affair—the microcosm of the 2016 season for both franchises.
Expect a ”Wild West shootout’ to break out, and New Orleans simply has a better quarterback with more ammunition…