The New Orleans Saints face long odds heading into their matchup against the Buffalo Bills, and the early-season numbers show just how steep the challenge could be.
According to NFL analyst Adam Schefter, the Saints’ offense has struggled to generate production despite ranking among the league leaders in total plays. They sit 28th in yards per play and average a touchdown and extra point fewer than the league standard. Protecting the football has been one of their few bright spots.
Defensively, the Saints have shown flashes with their run defense and pass rush, but they continue to give up more points than average. “The strengths are there in certain areas,” Schefter explained, “but they’re not turning those into consistent results.”
Buffalo, by contrast, enters the game with momentum. While the Bills allow the most yards per rush in the NFL, they rank near the top against the pass, keeping their scoring defense in the middle of the league. Offensively, they’ve been one of the NFL’s most efficient and dangerous teams, ranking fourth in points per game while excelling on third downs and in yards per play.
“The Bills’ offense is firing at a level that few teams can match right now,” Schefter said. “If the Saints are going to pull off an upset, it’ll take something close to perfect football.”
As the Saints head to Highmark Stadium, the consensus is clear: Buffalo is the heavy favorite.
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