The New England Patriots (7-3) face their toughest challenge of 2009 on Monday night when they travel to New Orleans to play the undefeated Saints (10-0). The Patriots need a signature road victory to send a message to the rest of the NFL.
New England Patriots quarterback, Tom Brady started 2009 slow coming off of season ending knee surgery, but has regained his pre-2008 form. Through 10 games, Brady is amongst the league leaders in Passing Yards (3, 049), TDs (20), QB Rating (100.4). What concerns me is Brady’s road numbers through 10 games: Passing Yards (1, 114), TDs (8), QB Rating (89.6). The number that jumps out at me is 4 of Brady’s 6 interceptions this season have come on the road.
Opposite Tom Brady, the New Orleans Saints’ feature one of the NFL’s greatest leaders in quarterback Drew Brees. Brees has equally impressive statistics through 10 games: Passing Yards (2, 746), TDs (22), QB Rating (105.8). At home this season, Brees has some impressive numbers: Passing Yards (1, 555), TDs (13), QB Rating (120.4).
Brees has the QB edge at home versus Brady on the road, but this game will come down to which team can rush the ball better and which team can commit LESS turnovers.
My Prediction: The Patriots will win in a shootout on Monday Night Football and send a message to the rest of the NFL.
Who do you think will win and why?
