Welcome everyone to the latest New Orleans Saints preview where I break down every game on the Saints schedule! This week, it’s the Saints taking on the Detroit Lions.
Last Week: The last time these two teams took the field, the Lions had another fourth quarter comeback on Thanksgiving to take down the Detroit Lions 16-13. The Saints on the other hand dominated the Los Angeles Rams through the air with four touchdowns from Drew Brees and one from Willie Snead in a 49-21 win.
Last Meeting: The last time the New Orleans Saints and the Detroit Lions faced off, the Lions dominated the Saints in the Superdome, winning 35-27. The Lions have won the last two, but the Saints hold the overall series 12-11-1.
What to Watch For:
Detroit Dangerous In 4th Quarter: The Saints will need to beware the Lions throughout the game, but the real problem could come if this is competitive in the fourth quarter. All of the Lions wins this season have been because of late scores. It’s even more of a concern for Saints fans because the Saints do have a tendency of putting it on cruise control against teams that don’t have Gregg Williams as their defensive coordinator.
Saints’ Defense Continues to Improve: The Saints defense has been taking huge strides defensively in the last few games and that could be a great sign heading into this game. In the last three games, the Saints defense has slowed down offenses through the air, not allowing more than 300 yards. Keep in mind that the Saints have been up against two relatively unknown QBs in that stretch, but it’s an encouraging sign for this defense that has been much maligned for a solid chunk of the season.
Saints Need to Explode Early and Often Offensively: Back to what I mentioned earlier and the Lions have a tendency to get on the board early in games, but they have a tendency of being unable to take that momentum and stuff it down the other team’s throat. If a victory wants to be within the Saints reach, they need to explode in a big way early and often.
Saints Will Win If:
The Saints can keep the good vibes going if the offense and defense can perform at around the same levels they have been performing as of late. The Saints allowed an incredible 176 yards passing last week against Los Angeles and if that defense shows up, the chances of the Saints winning go up significantly.
Lions Will Win If:
The Detroit Lions will win if they keep it competitive throughout. If it gets to be a high-scoring affair, the Saints have an edge because of their high-powered offense that spreads the ball around. However, the Lions keep it a low scoring game and they will win because of their tendencies in the fourth quarter.
-Clint Domingue