Philadelphia and New Orleans meet in a rematch of last January’s divisional playoff.


2007-12-21

Philadelphia and New Orleans meet in a rematch of last January’s divisional playoff. The Saints won that game and need to duplicate that feat to keep their postseason hopes alive for 2007.

They’ve rallied for wins in three of their L4 games to even up at 7-7. This one won’t be easy, as the Eagles are off an upset win at Dallas and have been a difficult team to read all season long. At 6-8, their playoff hopes are feint so playing the role of spoiler might have to do. New Orleans is a 3-point favorite, but just 3-10 ATS as home chalk under Sean Payton. HC Andy Reid’s club has done solid work vs. potent passing offenses, going 16-6 ATS in its L22 vs. teams averaging >=260 PYPG. The dog is 4-1 SU & 5-0 ATS in the L5 meetings between these teams in New Orleans.

The Eagles are slowly riding a trail towards a future they may not wish to face. The failures of 2007 are hard to overlook considering the tremendous conflict this team has faced both on and off the field, and once the season ends, veteran leader and passer Donovan McNabb will enjoy free agency and may seek a new home for play. With that in mind, it is difficult to understand where this team lies mentally and how they will perform in these late weeks.

The 2007 season for the Saints has been an absolute testament for QB Drew Brees, for the constant failings and shortcomings on both sides of the ball have not completely killed their life as an organization, the playoffs still in sight and the Saints still capable of making a difference. Their veteran leader at QB has done all he could to keep the team competitive while his leadership abilities may rank among the most heroic in the NFL. Getting help from the rushing attack and preventing the opposition from advance the ball with ease through the air should be priority #1.

Keys to the Game
The Eagles have not responded when presumed leader McNabb has been under center, misfiring time and again when first downs were needed to move the chains. Coach Andy Reid will have to work to regain the locker room, as this squad is divided into several factions. The Eagles have had luck against excellent passing teams averaging 260 or more passing yards a game with 16-6 ATS mark. Here is a horrible number for the Saints: They are 0-10 ATS at home in December off non-division games facing teams under .500.

Trends
~ Philadelphia is 10-3 ATS off a NFC East battle.
~ New Orleans is 5-15 ATS at Superdome when opponent is off road game.

StatFox Edge – Saints cover