New Orleans Saints: Which preseason games are worth watching?

Dec 24, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) gestures at the line against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 24, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) gestures at the line against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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Preseason games are basically pointless, but sometimes a good matchup is worth watching. Which New Orleans Saints game is actually worth tuning in to?

On Tuesday, the New Orleans Saints announced the times and dates of their preseason games. After a sweep last year, the Saints might actually be able to pick up a win. Will the team break their dry spell or end up winless again? Of the four preseason games, which one should you actually watch?

New Orleans’ first preseason game is against the Cleveland Browns. The game will be in Cleveland on Aug. 10 at 8:00 p.m. ET. This game is the most obvious one to win because it’s the Browns. They might have Myles Garrett now, but that doesn’t guarantee a win. Without a solid quarterback, the game doesn’t bode well for the Browns. Even with the Saints B-team out there, a win seems manageable plus it will begin the showdown for a starting spot. This game isn’t worth watching unless you want to get a glimpse at Garrett and what he can do.

The second preseason game is against the Los Angeles Chargers. This game is in Los Angeles and will be Aug. 20 at 8:00 p.m. ET. This game isn’t really special for the Saints because it will be another trial period for would-be starters. The glory here is all for the Chargers, who will be back in Los Angeles for the first time since 1960.

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However, the one bright spot for the Chargers game is Drew Brees might decide to go against his former team. It seems doubtful, but Brees might surprise everyone and hit the field. This might be another win for the Saints depending on the Chargers’ defense. This game isn’t really worth watching, either.

The Saints return home for their final two preseason games. Their first home game is against the Houston Texans. The game is scheduled for Aug. 26 at 8:00 p.m. ET. If there’s a game you have to watch, it’s this one. The Saints and Texans have faced off against each other nine times in the past with the Texans winning five of those contests.

This game will be huge for Texans and Saints fans with the Saints facing off against Deshaun Watson. With some huge defensive pickups, the Saints should be able to rattle Watson while the Texans will be testing Watson to see how he handles pressure. If the Saints win, they will tie up the series and only feed their rivalry. If you only watch one preseason game this year, make sure to watch this one.

Finally, the Saints wrap up the preseason against the Baltimore Ravens. This game is scheduled for Aug. 31 at 8:00 p.m. ET. If you’re interested in the Saints-Texans, then you might be interested in this game. The Ravens and Saints have faced each other for the last the years, with the Ravens winning every single one.

The Ravens didn’t make a lot of flashy moves this offseason, but brought some much-needed depth to their defense. The Saints did as well, and it will be interesting to see how their offenses answer. Seeing Brees and Flacco face off as two experienced veterans is just another added plus.

Next: 2017 NFL Season: All-under-25 First Team

Even though the preseason doesn’t really matter, the New Orleans Saints still have some good matchups. If you’re looking for a good game, I’d suggest either the Texans or the Ravens. If not, then there’s always the regular season. At least football will be back, right?