Just a few games of NFL Preseason Week 2 remain as the Jaguars and Saints play each other on Sunday, Aug. 17.
Both teams are 0-1 to start the preseason.
Jacksonville is a 2.5-point favorite and -155 on the moneyline on DraftKings Sportsbook. The game total is set at over/under 40.5 points.
Here’s my prediction and pick for Sunday’s Saints vs. Jaguars matchup.
Saints vs. Jaguars prediction
The Jaguars starters got a handful of reps in the team’s first preseason match. Trevor Lawrence, Travis Hunter and Brian Thomas Jr. all touched the field, but it was Nick Mullens who spent the most time under center.
Mullens threw the only passing touchdown of the game, connecting with Trenton Irwin for an 11-yard score. Jacksonville lost to Pittsburgh 31-25.
This week the Jaguars take on the Saints, who haven’t solved their quarterback issue just yet. Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler are competing for the starting job.
The Saints will likely play both of them again this week, attempting to see who will be the regular season Week 1 starter. Shough was 15-of-22 for 165 yards, one touchdown and one interception in his preseason debut, as the Saints lost 27-13.
The Jaguars are more equipped for the regular season with Trevor Lawrence under center, but it’s preseason. Backups and third-stringers play a ton of snaps, which creates uncertainty for the matchup.
Saints vs. Jaguars pick, best bet
The Saints and Jaguars are both seeking their first win of the preseason as they face off on Sunday, Aug. 17. It’ll be the only time they face each other this year as they don’t play in the regular season.
With Shough and Rattler under center in New Orleans, I’m favoring the Saints to cover the +2.5-point spread at home.