This total seems rather inflated when you consider that all Philadelphia games are averaging a combined 45.3 points this year, while all New Orleans games are averaging 45.9 points.
Somewhat surprisingly the Eagles have run the ball much better on the road than that at home, as Westbrook and Company are averaging 150.7 rushing yards per road game on an impressive 5.3 yards per game. We look for Philadelphia to take advantage of that fact here vs. a suspect Saints run defense that is allowing 122.9 rushing yards per game at home. Also the Eagle defense played much better during its playoff push, and even in a sub-par effort in the Wild Card round, the final point total of 43 would still be safely UNDER this total.
Conversely the Saints will rely on the passing of Drew Brees, who put up some MVP-type numbers this season. Keep in mind however that his next playoff victory will be his first, and the New Orleans offense does not match up well with a Philadelphia defense that is allowing just 189.5 passing yards per game this year on 5.8 yards per pass attempt. Finally the Saints have had a history of playing more conservatively in the post-season during prior coaching regimes, and it will be interesting to see if Sean Payton goes the same route.
Last edited by Willie Bee; 01-09-07 at 01:24 PM.
Reason: add front page link
I'm not really sure what to make of this total guys. It does seem a little high to me though. However, I really do like the Saints -5 in the game itself.
Dan, I happen to really like the Saints minus the points as well... I really feel that the Saints will make it to Miami this year... I think its one of those things like after 9/11/01 when the Pats won the Super Bowl... I believe they have destiny on their side because of Katrina...
As far as the total, I can't put a finger on it... I can see it going way over, but I think that hinges on the play of the Eagles defense...
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Eagles/Saints UNDER 49
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