It’s finally New Orleans Saints game week. This isn’t some exhibition kickoff in preseason — the black and gold will suit up against their biggest rivals in a matter of days, not weeks or months. And expectations are high. The Saints have opened as 5.5-point road favorites against the Atlanta Falcons at Tipico Sportsbook. The game’s low over/under (42.5) is a little concerning. That suggests a final score in the neighborhood of New Orleans 24, Atlanta 19. Opposing teams held the Saints to 24 points or fewer in nine games last season, including three of Jameis Winston’s first six starts.
New Orleans has made upgrades on offense at wide receiver (in drafting Chris Olave and signing Jarvis Landry, while mending fences with Michael Thomas) but they took a step back at left tackle by parting ways with Terron Armstead. Oddsmakers don’t seem confident that Winston will take a big step forward in such circumstances, but they do see the Saints’ winning formula.
