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Eagles vs. Saints preview: Will Nick Foles unleash magic again?

By Bryan Manning

LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 30: Nick Foles #9 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half at FedExField on December 30, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 30: Nick Foles #9 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half at FedExField on December 30, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /
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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DECEMBER 23: Alvin Kamara #41 of the New Orleans Saints runs with the ball during the first half against the Pittsburg Steelers at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on December 23, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

Prediction

One thing is certain, the final score will not be 48-7 or anything similar on Sunday. Yes, the Saints are a great team coming off a much-needed week off, but there is arguably no hotter team in the playoffs than defending champs. And Foles isn’t your typical backup quarterback.

The Eagles will keep it close with an inspired defensive performance. The Cowboys provided a blueprint on how to disrupt Brees and his rhythm passing game. Philly has the front four to cause New Orleans some trouble as the depth along the defensive line keeps the group fresh late into games.

However, New Orleans’ defense will also come to play. The Saints will manage to create pressure on Foles throughout the game and force a couple of turnovers, which Brees & Co. will convert into points. Kamara will have a big game for the Saints, especially as a receiver and Smith will also have a big touchdown. Philly’s pass defense will be much better than the earlier matchup but it won’t be enough to pull off the upset.

Next. 20 Bold predictions for the Divisional Round. dark

And never discount the home crowd at the Superdome in the playoffs. Philadelphia’s magic ride will come short this year and the Saints will be playing for an opportunity to get back to the Super Bowl.

Final score: New Orleans 27, Philadelphia 17

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