New Orleans Saints (4-5) at Washington Redskins (3-5)

Even at 36 years of age, Drew Brees is playing very well. He’s completing 69.6% of his passes for an average of 8.08 YPA, 18 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions, while leading an offense that ranks 4^th in rate of moving the chains. Last year they ranked 2^nd, but they’re obviously still a very good offense and this year they’re doing it with the likes of wide receiver Willie Snead (41/626/3) and tight end Ben Watson (43/532/3) playing huge roles in the passing game. Brees is still one of the best quarterbacks in the league. The defense remains weak and has had issues with injuries all year, but they rank 12^th overall in rate of moving the chains differential.

However, the Redskins are a decent team, ranking 21^st in rate of moving the chains differential and are finally healthy with the likes of cornerback Chris Culliver, cornerback DeAngelo Hall, and wide receiver DeSean Jackson all playing in this one. The Saints, meanwhile, could be missing talented left tackle Terron Armstead, in addition to more minor losses on the defensive side of the ball (linebacker Dannell Ellerbe, linebacker David Hawthorne, cornerback Damian Swann). It’s hard to back them to win straight up in Washington, so I’m going to fade the public and go with Washington, who also seems to be the sharps’ choice, but I have no confidence. I would need a field goal to take either side.

Washington Redskins 26 New Orleans Saints 24

Pick against the spread: Washington PK

Confidence: None

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