New Orleans Saints: 5 X-factor players for Week 8 vs. Bears

2. Wil Lutz, K

A lot of fans and teams alike take kickers for granted. Most cite that they’re just paid to kick a ball and in some ways, they’re not wrong. However, when teams have a bad kicker, it’s always noticeable. For the New Orleans Saints though, Wil Lutz has come in clutch thus far this season and he’s become a major part of their special teams attack. Lutz has yet to miss this season and I don’t look for that to change.

While some might discount him as an X-Factor player, Lutz has proven himself week in and week out. When the Saints need those three points to start or finish the game, he’s always there, making sure they’re ahead of the curve. Against the Panthers, he made all of the extra points plus two field goals over 40 yards. Overall, Wil Lutz has been excellent this season and it doesn’t look like the Bears will have a chance at stopping him.

1. Drew Brees, QB

The final X-Factor player for the Saints is easily Drew Brees. Even though some counted him out earlier this year, Brees is slowly making his way back. Even with some key pieces of the offense on the mend, he’s found a groove with some unlikely suspects. Looking back at last week though, Brees had a solid game in which he completed 29 of his 36 passes for almost 300 yards and two touchdowns. He also finished the game with a rushing touchdown, making it his second game in a row.

For Week 8, Brees is going to have to put together a similar if not better performance. The Bears have been consistent on defense especially with Khalil Mack. While only one game doesn’t exactly dictate the future, Brees usually heats up around mid-season, and now is the perfect time for that. Overall, Brees has to keep playing as he did last week against the Panthers to ensure the team is successful. The New Orleans Saints are at a make-or-break time and these wins are crucial with their schedule only getting tougher from here on out.