Rams-Saints In A Big One

Who would have guessed just a few months ago that the St. Louis Rams would be taking on the defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints in a meaningful December game? Not me, and yet, here we are. I’ve heard plenty of people bury the Rams for this week already, but I wouldn’t be so quick to count them out. The Rams have played the Saints tough a couple times over the last few years, and I think we can at least stay competitive with them until later in the game. Here are the keys to the Rams pulling off the big upset in the Big Easy.

Ivory Hunting- The Saints are well-known for Drew Brees and their dynamic passing game, but I think the number one key to this week is stopping Chris Ivory and the running game. The Saints are going to move the ball through the air, but if we can keep their running game bottled up, I think we can at least limit the damage. Ivory has been putting up some big numbers, so the defense certainly has their hands full.

No Room For Error – It’s pretty obvious to me that the Saints are going to be the most talented team on the field, which means the Rams cannot afford to make mistakes. I know that’s a lot to ask, but sometimes you have to put a game like that together if you are going to pull an upset. We can’t turn the ball over, and we have to keep the penalties to a minimum.

Turnover Battle – One thing about the Saints is that their defense isn’t absolutely outstanding. The Rams can move the ball against them, but they do find a way to make big plays. The defense/special teams unit that steps up and makes a big play could determine the outcome.

Believe – Most people aren’t giving the Rams a chance in this one, but the players in that locker room need to know that they belong on the same field as New Orleans. The lights are starting to get bright on this team, so let’s see how they handle it.

I really do think the Rams can make this thing a game, but as far as my prediction goes, I’m going to say 31-17 Saints, with New Orleans pulling away late.