New Orleans Saints: Bold predictions for Wild Card Round vs. Vikings

2. A huge special teams play in the second half swings the game completely

Playoff games are so critical and they literally can come down to one play or one missed penalty by the officials. Unfortunately, the New Orleans Saints have learned that over the last two years.

The Vikings are no joke and Saint fans should not be expecting the team to go into this game and simply steamroll Minnesota from the opening whistle and on. Yes, there is the narrative of Kirk Cousins and the Saints are probably more talented, but this is going to be a tough game nonetheless.

I expect a back-and-forth game and I would not even be surprised if the Vikings have the lead heading into halftime. The Saints have started slow multiple times this season before getting the offense going and overwhelming the other team.

There will be a moment late in the third quarter or early in the fourth where the game is either tied or the Saints have a one-possession lead. In that moment, the Saints special teams unit is going to come up with a massive play that will end up being the deciding factor of the game when we go back and rewatch the game.

I expect either a blocked punt or a punt return touchdown from Deonte Harris. Either way, if and when the Vikings are punting late in the game, just keep in mind this article and do not be afraid to circle back to it after it happens.

This is a game between two talented teams where the first one to blink will lose. The Saints will come up massive on a Vikings’ mistake to pull away and win this game.