The New Orleans Saints were rattled their previous appearance at CentuckyLink Field this season. The NFC South team was challenged all game by a tough Seattle Seahawks defense and the crowd noise making things tough on the field. The team returns in the NFC Divisional Playoff matchup to seek some revenge.
The Saints snapped a three-game road losing streak when they won against the Philadelphia Eagles in the wildcard round of the playoffs. A field goal as time expired pushed the team to a win, giving the Saints their first road playoff win in six games.
The Seattle defense gave the Saints headaches in their first matchup back in December. The NFL-leading unit held Drew Brees to just 147 yards which was his fewest since 2006. As a whole, Seattle's defense is allowing just 273.6 yards of total offense this year. On the road this year, Brees has a 84.0 passer rating compared to his 126.3 rating at home. Seattle is preparing for another top defensive showing against the Saints. The team has 28 interceptions while cornerback Richard Sherman has eight on the year.
For as good as Seattle's defense is, their offense is just as good. Russell Wilson excelled agains the Saint's defense in their first meeting. The quarterback tossing for 310 yards and three touchdowns. Marshawn Lynch will certainly help things out. He did have that memorable touchdown run in the team's last playoff meeting.
The offense could look even better than expected. Seattle will be getting back wide receiver Percy Harvin after he missed all but one game this year with a hip injury. He is expected to make an immediate impact. Tight end Luke Wilson will also be back after suffering a high ankle sprain at the end of the season.
Seattle has won four of five home meetings against the New Orleans Saints. They will try and win their sixth straight home playoff game while also securing their 16th win over the last 17 matchups. Home field could play a big role in the NFC Divisional playoff game as Drew Brees comes in seeking revenge against their new rivals.