Zielinski: Packers will put a hurt on hurting Saints

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Green Bay Packers aim to secure an NFC playoff spot as they host the injury-depleted New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football in Week 16. With four wins in their last five games, the Packers can improve to 11-4 and continue their late-season surge.

Green Bay’s run game, led by Josh Jacobs, is set to exploit a Saints defense that is strong against the pass but vulnerable to the run. Jacobs, averaging over 20 touches in four of the last five games, should thrive in the cold, potentially snowy conditions, which favor the Packers’ physical, ground-first approach and could neutralize New Orleans’ pass rush.

Jordan Love is also in top form, boasting five straight games with a passer rating of 100.0 or better. Facing a Saints defense allowing an opposing passer rating of 83.0, Love has a prime chance to extend his streak. Efficiency and ball security will be key.

The Saints face long odds. Injuries have decimated their roster, sidelining Derek Carr, Alvin Kamara, Chris Olave and other key contributors. Rookie quarterback Spencer Ratter, 0-3 as a starter, leads an offense likely to struggle.

A Green Bay victory seems inevitable with the Saints shorthanded and the Packers surging. While the streak of 30-point games may end, the Packers should comfortably secure their playoff berth.

Prediction: Packers 27, Saints 17