2019 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 17

New Orleans Saints (12-3) at Carolina Panthers (5-10)

Sunday, December 29, 1PM ET

It may not seem like it, but the New Orleans Saints have plenty to play for in Week 17. Currently sitting at 12-3, they have the potential to earn a first-round bye depending on how the rest of the final weekend’s games play out. So a win would be very helpful.

It also helps that they’ll be playing a Carolina Panthers team that has been a dumpster fire this season. They’ve lost their last seven outings after looking like a contender early in the year, and are coming off a miserable showing against the Indianapolis Colts. Put simply, they don’t offer much of a threat.

More than likely, the Saints will cruise to a win on Sunday. Although I wouldn’t expect to see them sit too many players in hopes of ensuring a victory, they shouldn’t have too much trouble putting a hurting on the Panthers. That could lead to players like Drew Brees, Michael Thomas and Alvin Kamara seeing the bench by the fourth quarter.

It’s time for a refresh in Carolina, as they’ll look to turn things around during the offseason. This last loss of 2019 will symbolize their awful campaign, and re-emphasize the need for a new beginning in 2020.

Prediction: Saints win 34-13