Welcome everyone to the latest Saints preview where I break down each game on the schedule! This week, it’s the New Orleans Saints against the Denver Broncos.
Last Week: The last time the Saints took the field, they took one from the San Francisco 49ers in convincing fashion 41-23. The Broncos on the other hand fell to the Oakland Raiders last Sunday despite an attempt at a rally 30-20.
Last Meeting: The last time these two teams met, the Denver Broncos took down the Saints in 2012 in convincing fashion 34-14. They have won the last four meetings and hold an 8-2 series lead.
What to Watch For:
Saints Riding Wave of Momentum: The Saints look like an entirely different team since the loss to the Atlanta Falcons back in week three, winning four of their last five. There are still some issues though, as most of these wins were by five or less points prior to the 49ers game last week. The Broncos won’t give up too much with one of the best defenses in recent memory and could cause trouble on Sunday.
Secondary Takes Big Hit: While the Saints look to be having a good time, they just took a big hit to their already weak secondary with news coming down that Kenny Vaccaro has been suspended for four games due to Adderall. The passing game for the Broncos isn’t stellar, but the secondary without Vaccaro and a healthy Delvin Breaux could make Trevor Siemian look like a Rookie of the Year candidate.
Keeping Possession: The Saints will need to keep the ball at all times this Sunday because they’re going up against one of the best in the league in getting turnovers, having a total of 17 through nine games. Mark Ingram has been working overtime to not ever let go of the ball after doing it in consecutive games, but perhaps the concern should be keeping Drew Brees upright and giving him time to go through his progression.
Saints Will Win If:
The Saints can keep the momentum going if they can overcome their issues in the secondary. Trevor Siemian hasn’t exactly looked like a world beater, but the less than stellar secondary of the Saints will make a task of being serviceable that much easier. They also need to not look too far ahead as they have a Thursday night game against Carolina only four days later.
Broncos Will Win If:
The Denver Broncos just need to have their vaunted defense perform as they have for most games this season. The Saints will be having their biggest test in terms of defensive powerhouses this Sunday and this could be a long one if Denver can get some turnovers.
-Clint Domingue