New Orleans Saints vs Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks prepare for this game with a 7-1 home record after going 13-3 during the regular season, and have talent spread right across the roster both on their defensive and offensive units.
MVP candidate and Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson went 257-of-407 for 3357 yards and had 26 touchdowns this season, but with cornerback Richard Sherman and Marshawn Lynch also proving to be fundamental pieces, it looks a daunting prospect for the Saints.
Nevertheless, they arrive at CenturyLink Field having overcome the criticism of being unable to win on the road, particularly with New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees’ dire previous record.
Their win over the Philadelphia Eagles will have been a welcome boost, while Brees has previously stated that they have known for some time that they would have beat the Seahawks in order to reach the Super Bowl.
Seattle beat their rivals 34-7 on December 2, with both Brees and coach Sean Payton being held to record lows in scoring since 2006.
Sumeet Paul: The Saints will make it more of a contest this time round, but with the Seahawks being so dominant this season coupled with home-field advantage, it is difficult not to see anything but a home win. Sean Payton’s strategic mind should not be discounted, but with the meanest defense in the NFL, back Seattle to advance.
Scott Hazlewood: Seahawks to win by 10. The home side here has the edge for me, they’re looking for their sixth straight home playoff win and they beat the Saints by a blow out not too long ago. Combine this with the best defence in the NFL, which held Drew Brees to just 147 yards back in December and you’ve got the winner.
Adam Davies: Seahawks win. Few sets of fans get behind their team in any sport like Seattle fans, and I think the players know it.
New Orleans Saints 0-3 Seattle Seahawks.
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