Game-by-game predictions for 2023 New Orleans Saints schedule

Week 17: New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

During the regular season in each of the past four years, whoever won the first game of this series also won the second. New Orleans swept Tampa Bay in 2019, 2020, and 2021 (although they did lose their one playoff game in 2020). Tampa Bay then swept them in 2022 as they snuck into the playoffs despite owning a losing record.

Here, the Saints keep the streak alive as they defeat Tampa Bay in what proves to be a low-scoring affair that's won on the ground. Sweeping Tampa will go a long way toward helping them secure the NFC South.

Final Score: Saints 16, Bucs 10

Week 18: New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons

Earlier in the season, the Falcons handed the Saints a loss which is always frustrating. However, it also happens constantly in divisional battles. The good news is, New Orleans will enter this contest with a healthier respect for the Falcons' re-worked defense and run-first offense. They'll also have a more cohesive unit as Bryan Bresee is coming into his own.

With that in mind, they're able to slow down the Falcons and get some revenge for the loss. This series winds up going 1-1.

Final Score: Saints 33, Falcons 20

If this holds true, New Orleans will be 10-7 and that should be enough for them to be crowned NFC South Champions.