Philadelphia Eagles fans know that Chip Kelly is a genius. Year one of his regime in the NFL has proven that he can make his brilliant offense work in the pros. He brought his Oregon Ducks magic up to the next level. And he made a suspect defense into a respectable unit that is serviceable. In LeSean McCoy they have the Barry Sanders of this generation, and Nick Foles rose from obscurity to All-Pro level.
The Saints had the worst defense in NFL history in 2012, and Rob Ryan took turned that program right around. And of course, never count out Drew Brees. It will be interesting to see how the Saints handle those world reknown for their charm Philadelphia Eagles fans. They are such a lovely bunch indeed.
TV: NBC Sat 7 pm CST
SPREAD: Philadelphia Eagles -2.5
“I can’t wait to watch the New Orleans Saints against the Philadelphia Eagles. Rob Ryan is one of those defensive coordinators that will do anything. Chip Kelly calling the plays for the Philadelphia Eagles is one of those guys that will do anything. We’re going to get a whole lot of ‘we’ll do anything’ calls in that game and it will be exciting as anything we have seen all year.” – Cris Collinsworth on Saints – Eagles
“Those Philly fans…they can’t wait, they hope it snows so they can throw snowballs at Drew Brees and that dome offense. How is New Orleans going to function on the road in Philadelphia? I think it’s going to be tough for New Orleans. A lot of points, but Philly outscores them.” – Tony Dungy
“I think it’s something mental. I just believe that they don’t believe they can win on the road, like you said, in those conditions, snowballs, or whatever the conditions are…I think it’s over. That (Eagles) defense is a lot better than we give credit to.” – Rodney Harrison
Brutally honest record: 78-35
Brutally honest pick: Philadelphia Eagles 37, Saints 28
Paul M. Banks is the owner of The Sports Bank.net, an affiliate of Fox Sports. He’s also an analyst for multiple news talk radio stations across the country; with regular weekly segments on NBC and Fox Sports Radio. Follow him on Twitter (@paulmbanks) and RSS Catch him Tuesdays talking Illini and Northwestern for KOZN 1620 The Zone, Fridays talking Chicago Bulls and Bears for WAOR 95.7 The Fan