I didn't think that losing their coach would have a significant effect on the Saints, but it would seem that, if it's not that, a wheel has come off somewhere.
The major problem is the New Orleans' defense: it's horrible. Their pass rush isn't getting home and their secondary is poor (the Saints have given up 300 yards to opposing QBs in all but one game this season) and to make matters worse, they're now coping with injuries.
Michael Vick is behind a creaking offensive line that has seen the Eagles' coaches alter their QB's gameplan somewhat, with a much quicker release and shorter passes designed to avoid the sacks and turnovers that were burning them. That said, tonight should see some shots deep to guys like Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson. LeSean McCoy should be able to get rolling against a weak run D and as my loyal follower knows, I like a balanced offense.
Drew Brees will like the look of this matchup, as the Eagles have their own problems on defense: so much so a new defensive co-ordinator has come in. The difference seemed to be initially a lot more blitzing, but if you send everyone against Brees, he'll murder you and I expect Marques Colston and Jimmy Graham to have big games as the Philadelphia corners are ponderous and their safeties struggle in coverage. There's less balance here with Sproles out and Pierre Thomas/Mark Ingram less explosive options.
This could be a game with a lot of points with neither stop unit showing much form; in terms of the spread, although they're horribly unreliable, I'll favour the visitors.
Pick: Philadelphia Eagles +3 @ 1.83
Pick: Over 51.5 @ 1.91
Pick: 1st TD Michael Vick @ 17
Pick: Anytime TD Marques Colston @ 2
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