Saints shut out in NFC South champion predictions

The Pro Football Focus team voted on who would win the NFC South. None of the analysts believe the New Orleans Saints will gain their crown back as divisional champions.

The Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are the favorites entering the season and the analysts’ prediction reflect what has been a common belief.

Trevor Sikkema was the only one to pick the Buccaneers. The majority opinion is the Atlanta Falcons will win their first title since 2016. With Kirk Cousins at the helm, the Falcons have rejuvenated expectations.

Cousins joins an offense with Bijan Robinson at running back. There’s also a belief Kyle Pitts and Drake London were held back by below average quarterback play.

The Saints are behind the top two in terms of expectations. The Saints disappointed last year and haven’t added much new talent. Klint Kubiak is a big addition, but it’s not enough to create a spark outside of local media.

Expectations are low for New Orleans, so the Saints occupy an under-the-radar role for the first time in half a decade.