The New Orleans Saints (5-9) are set to take on the Green Bay Packers (10-4) on Monday, December 23, 2024, at 8:15 PM ET at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This game is super important for both teams, but for different reasons. The Packers are fighting for a better spot in the playoffs, while the Saints are trying to make the most of their season with interim head coach Darren Rizzi.
Green Bay Packers (10-4)
The Packers have really stood out this season, showing off a well-rounded offense led by quarterback Jordan Love. He’s racked up 2,953 passing yards, tossing 23 touchdowns while throwing 11 picks. Love has clearly improved as the season has gone on, getting more at ease in the pocket and making smarter choices when the heat is on.
Josh Jacobs has been a key player in their running game, racking up 1,147 rushing yards and scoring 12 touchdowns this season. He’s really stepped up for the Packers, serving as a dependable choice on first downs and when they need those tough yards. The offensive line has also done a solid job, opening up paths for Jacobs and keeping Love safe in the pocket.
The Packers’ defense has been tough to beat, giving up just 105 rushing yards a game. Rashan Gary is leading the charge with 10 sacks this season, making the pass rush a real threat. Plus, their secondary, highlighted by star cornerback Jaire Alexander, has done a great job of shutting down big plays.
New Orleans Saints (5-9)
The Saints have had a tough time this season, especially after star running back Alvin Kamara got hurt. Quarterback Derek Carr has racked up 2,145 passing yards, with a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 15:5. However, his play has been hit or miss, largely due to a struggling running game and injuries to important receivers.
With Kamara out, rookie running back Kendre Miller is going to be key for the running game. He’s had some moments that show his potential, but he really needs to elevate his game against a strong Packers defense. The Saints’ passing game depends a lot on wide receivers like Chris Olave, who need to find ways to get open to give Carr some options down the field.
The Saints’ defense has had its ups and downs, showing flashes of greatness at times. They give up about 22.3 points per game and really struggle when it comes to stopping the run. To keep their defense fresh, they need to keep Jacobs in check and avoid those long drives.
Key Players to Watch
Packers:
Jordan Love (QB): Ready to shine as he takes charge of the offense.
Josh Jacobs (RB): A crucial part of the running game that can take advantage of the Saints’ struggling run defense.
Saints:
Derek Carr (QB): He really needs to raise their game to stay in the hunt with the Saints.
Kendre Miller (RB): Miller is going to be key in the running game now that Kamara is out.
Chris Olave (WR): A versatile playmaker who can really shine when the chances come his way.
Betting Odds
Spread: Packers -14.5
Total Points Over/Under: 42 points
Moneyline: Packers -900; Saints +600
Keys to Victory
For the Packers:
Get the running game going with Jacobs right from the start to manage the clock and set the pace.
Make good use of play-action passes to take advantage of any gaps in the Saints’ secondary.
Keep the heat on Carr to make him slip up.
For the Saints:
Count on Kendre Miller to make things happen on the ground against a solid Packers defense.
Focus on short passes to ease the pressure on Carr and keep the momentum going in drives.
Boost red zone performance; they need to turn chances into touchdowns instead of just settling for field goals.
Considering how both teams are playing lately and the injuries they’re dealing with, I think the Green Bay Packers are going to take control of this game at home against the New Orleans Saints.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Packers: 30 – Saints: 13