2020 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 1

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-0) at New Orleans Saints (0-0)

Sunday, September 13, 4:25PM ET

The battle for the NFC South is going to be an interesting one this season. The top contenders in the division, the New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, will each be looking to get out of the gates fast with win in this opening-weekend squabble.

Now here’s my take on the Buccaneers: this has the feeling of the 2011 Eagles’ “Dream Team.” Sure, they’ve brought in some exciting pieces from around the league and suddenly have the look of a legitimate contender – on paper. Yes, Brady’s presence helps and he’s got plenty of weapons to work with. Unfortunately, it’s not always that simple.

As for the Saints, they’ve got the look of a true contender capable of making a deep playoff run. Drew Brees is still a top passer, and the New Orleans defense is just as dangerous as it was a season ago. With Sean Payton still calling the shots and this looking like a do-or-die season for a franchise set to tear things down next offseason, the stars may just be aligning.

We get our first glimpse at the “Dream Team” failing to click in Week 1, as the Saints get the hard-earned W against the Buccaneers. Brady plays well, but it’s not enough to overcome Brees, Alvin Kamara, Michael Thomas and the rest of New Orleans’ offensive assault.

Prediction: Saints win 33-28