Could this be a NFC conference finals preview? It sure could be. The Rams and Saints are the class on the conference and two of the best teams in the league.

NFL Point Spread and Betting Analysis

These two teams have met twice in the last two years, with the Saints winning 49-21 in 2016, and the Rams returning the favour last year in Los Angeles knocking off the Saints 26-20. Head-to-head the home team in the series is 6-0 against the spread (ATS) in their last six meetings, and the Rams are 6-2 ATS in the last eight games against the Saints. Of note, the over is 4-1 in the last five meetings between these two clubs in New Orleans, but it’s never been this high of a total. Last year’s number was chalked at 54 points, where the two teams went under.

Los Angeles Rams

The Rams are the only undefeated team left in the NFL, a perfect 8-0 (4-4 ATS) and coming off their biggest test to date, a 29-27 decision over the Packers at home. Running back Todd Gurley continues to show the football world why he’s an MVP candidate. Gurley set a new Rams record with 15 touchdowns through the first eight games of the season. He also had 195 total yards in the win. This weekend’s matchup against the Saints is much tougher. But there is some good news for the club before heading to the Mardi Gras City.

The Rams are expecting star receiver Cooper Kupp to return to the lineup. He’s been out for the last couple weeks with a sprained MCL. This can only help an offence that is second in total offence (452.6), and third in points scored (33.0 points per game). Of note, the Rams were busy at the trade deadline, acquiring linebacker Dante Fowler from the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a third and fifth round picks. The former first round pick (2013) didn’t live up to expectations in Northern Florida, he’ll get a great chance with a great team before he heads to unrestricted free agency this offseason.

New Orleans Saints

After starting the season with a hiccup against the Bucs, the Saints have put together a six-game winning streak entering this game. They are 6-1 (5-2 ATS) on the season, but in the middle of the toughest part of their schedule. They started this five-game climb with wins against the Ravens and Vikings, play the Rams this week, and then face  the Bengals and Eagles. Depending on what they do here, this could determine the season. Drew Brees continues to play at an MVP pace and has many weapons in an offence that ranks second in points scored with an average of 33.4. He has thrown 14 touchdowns passes to eight different target, but a favourite has to be receiver Michael Thomas. Thomas already has 58 receptions in seven games (averaging just over eight catches per game).

Outside of all this offence from both teams, one of the best matchups will be on the defensive side of the ball. The Saints defence ranks number one against the rush, allowing opposition running backs just 74.1 yards per game. They will be tested when the leagues number one running back Todd Gurley comes to town Sunday afternoon. Gurley averages 100 yards per game this year.

Rams vs. Saints Prediction