There is plenty of hype surrounding the New Orleans Saints entering the 2018 season. Several monster draft classes have restored the team to a version closely resembling the Super Bowl champs from several years ago rather than the club that won seven games in three consecutive years. One player who’s been around for it all is Drew Brees, but he’ll give way to a trio of players vying for the backup job when the Saints host the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2 of the preseason.
This battle in Week 2 of the preseason will kickoff at 8 p.m. ET on Friday, August 17, 2018, inside the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
NFL Odds at BookMaker.eu
Arizona Cardinals +3
New Orleans Saints -3
Over/Under 42.5
Odds Analysis
Another standard line hit the board for this matchup with the Saints opening as a field goal favorite over the Cards for their preseason home opener. Both teams covered last week and played over the closing total, though they struggled offensively. Expect to see better execution and the total reflects that by opening at 42.5.
Quarterback Rotation
As expected, Sam Bradford played just one series in the opener last week, but he was on the field for nearly half the first quarter as the No. 1 offense put together an eight-play scoring drive on its first possession. Bradford threw just one pass that was completed for six yards. Bradford is expected to see action again on Friday as he returns from knee injuries.
The Cardinals are also expected to give rookie Josh Rosen some time with the first team offense. Rosen entered last week’s contest with the second-group and it was a struggle for everyone. Rosen completed 6 of 13 passes for 41 yards, but he was hindered by poor blocking, bad center snaps and a few drops. “We’re going to give him the opportunity to get in there with the ones and get into a rhythm,” coach Steve Wilks said of Rosen.
With a battle for the backup job still in full swing, it’s doubtful we see Brees make his debut this week. Sean Payton held his veteran out until the dress rehearsal last season and that’s the likely scenario in 2018. Former Texan Tom Savage got the start against Jacksonville and was steady but unimpressive. He completed 10 of 14 passes but amassed just 70 yards. He didn’t’ throw a touchdown or an interception and didn’t take a sack.
Taysom Hill was a bit more explosive mainly because he has more mobility in the backfield and can make plays with his legs. Hill threw for 72 yards on 8 of 9 passing and ran for an additional 52 yards and a touchdown on seven carries. His ability to scramble and create something out of nothing could give him an edge for the backup job, but Sean Payton still needs to see more.
Players to Watch
With Mark Ingram suspended for the first four games of the regular season, the Saints are searching for a back to team with Alvin Kamara once the bell rings. Jonathan Williams was in a good spot for the temporary gig until the Saints added veterans Shane Vereen and Terrance West to the mix. Then the team added Boston Scott in the sixth round of the draft. Whoever wins the job certainly will earn it.
All four played in Jacksonville last week and now that Williams has overcome the injury concerns that put the brakes on his career, he’s showing why he was a hot college prospect. He’s been strong in camp getting first-team reps after a strong performance against the Jags. Williams ran for 26 yards, including a 13-yard touchdown, on four carries and vaulted above the others on the depth chart for the time being.
Free ATS Pick
Competition for jobs can create plenty of excitement, especially when those position battles are on the offensive side of the football. And that’s the case with both these teams as they get ready for their Friday night showdown. The Saints desperately need a plan B at quarterback and Hill has been electric throwing and running. He’ll get more opportunities on Friday.
There is a steep drop off in talent from the Cards’ starters to their second-stringers and the group was exposed last week. Second teamers on the O line were manhandled and Rosen didn’t get much help. And the defense gave up big chunks of yardage, though stiffening when it had to. Wilks hinted that his regulars would see more playing time and that Rosen will get some snaps with the first-team. It’s a nice touch, but not enough to beat the Saints in the dome.
NFL Odds: Saints 23, Cardinals 13
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