2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 5

New Orleans Saints (2-2) at Washington Football Team (2-2)

Sunday, October 10, 1PM ET

As we all know, it’s always a guessing game as to what Jameis Winston shows up on Sunday. The New Orleans Saints have found that out the hard way, as they currently sit at 2-2 and haven’t been able to rely on their offense as much as they’d like to.

The New Orleans defense has stepped up and done its best to keep things close, but it wasn’t enough in Week 4. And now they’ve got another tough test coming in the Washington Football Team, which seems like one of the most resilient bunches in the NFL.

Taylor Heinicke is doing his very best to keep the offense running strong, with heavy doses of help from Terry McLaurin and Antonio Gibson. He’s delivered when needed this season, which is why the Football Team is still in the thick of the hunt — at least for an NFC Wild Card slot. The Saints may be vying for a similar slot, which is why this one matters more than you’d think.

D.C.’s defense hasn’t lived up to the hype this season, which could open the door for a big day from Winston. He relies on Alvin Kamara early and often, giving the Saints just enough to inch their way to a much-needed win in Week 5.

Prediction: Saints win 31-28 | Spread: Saints (-1)