National media guesses low on New Orleans Saints' win count — again
After a week of roster movement, Bleacher Report provided another rendition of win-loss predictions. And again, Bleacher Report guessed far too low on the New Orleans Saints win count. In this rendition of win-loss predictions, Bleacher Report guessed the Saints will finish the season with a forgettable 9-8 record. This is what Bleacher Report had […]
After a week of roster movement, Bleacher Report provided another rendition of win-loss predictions.
And again, Bleacher Report guessed far too low on the New Orleans Saints win count.
In this rendition of win-loss predictions, Bleacher Report guessed the Saints will finish the season with a forgettable 9-8 record.
This is what Bleacher Report had to say:
"The uncertainty comes on offense, where Jameis Winston is returning from a torn left ACL.
Prior to 2021, he enjoyed huge statistical seasons but was a reckless passer. Last year, that changed. He had a terrific seven-game run with a career-low 1.9 percent interception rate—all without star receiver Michael Thomas.
Winston and Thomas are back, and New Orleans added first-round pick Chris Olave and veteran Jarvis Landry to the receiver's room. Optimism is understandably high.
A midseason gauntlet with the Bengals, Cardinals, Raiders, Ravens, Steelers, Rams, 49ers and Bucs will be stressful. But a 4-4 record should keep the Saints in the playoff hunt."
It is fair to doubt whether Winston will be who he was during his seven-game run. However, there is no proof to say that he can't be that guy again. At that point in time, it looked like Winston turned a corner as a player and was playing a winning brand of football.
He can get back there — easily.
With the return of Thomas, Winston also has a safety blanket, who has built a career on making plays all over the field.
The offense is in question, yes. But the questions aren't as dramatic as they may seem on the surface. With good quarterback play, and decent pass-catchers, New Orleans should be fine on that side of the ball.
And with a defense that should genuinely be feared, it's easy to see a world in which New Orleans wins at least 10 games on the season.
Nine wins was a safe bet, but safe isn't always right.
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Feature image via Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports.
