The aftermath of the NFL Week 15 has settled and we move on to Week 16. NFL Week 16 brings us some great story lines and drama carried over from last week. Now with more teams officially eliminated from the playoff hunt, we can better rank picks and predictions heading into the NFL Week 16, starting off with Thursday Night Football.
Thursday Night Football: Los Angeles Rams VS New Orleans Saints
We start NFL Week 16 with a NFC matchup between the New Orleans Saints and the Los Angeles Rams. A few weeks ago we would've written this game off, but it turns out that these teams are both fighting for playoff positions. The Saints are still in the fight for the NFC South Division title or even a wild card spot. While the Rams, led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, are looking to sneak their way into the playoffs. Both New Orleans and LA hold a record of 7-7 and aim to further solidify their playoff chances.
New Orleans Saints
Saints quarterback Derek Carr has had some struggle in his new black and gold uniform but last week he found some rhythm against the New York Giants defense. Where he threw for three touchdowns and completed the game with an overall passer rating of 134.8. And this was without both his starting wide receivers, Michael Thomas and Chris Olave. Carr has gotten comfortable hitting his tight end Jimmy Graham consistently for scores close to the endzone. Props to Graham as he resurrected his NFL career where it all started, on the New Orleans Saints.
Los Angeles Rams
Rams Matt Stafford had quite a few questions about his health a few weeks ago, but Stafford has proved throughout his career that he is highly regarded for his toughness and willingness to play; so this case is no different. The Rams have won four of their last five games only losing to the AFC leading Baltimore Ravens. Where in this game the Rams matched quarterback Lamar Jackson and the Ravens throughout the game; which was decided by a Ravens punt return touchdown in overtime. Stafford and wide receiver Cooper Kupp continue their reign as one of the best quarterback wide receiver pairs in the league. Kupp hauled in 111 yards and a touchdown against the Washington Commanders last week.
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Picks and Predictions
Our picks and predictions for this game are somewhat interesting. We think this Thursday Night Football showdown will be a fun game to watch. As both teams come off rather convincing wins in Week 15 against struggling NFC East teams. We can assume they will carry this momentum into Week 16. Here's how we think the game will go:
The Rams will continue to feed their workhorse running back Kyren Williams as he compiled a total of 155 yards rushing and receiving along with a score last week. Only drawback to this monster game is that Williams lost two fumbles as well. The Saints held talented Giants running back Saquan Barkley in check last week, so the Rams may have to resort to the air. Shouldn't be too hard, as Stafford has been making good use of his star rookie wide receiver Puka Nacua and also the former 2021 triple crown holder Cooper Kupp isn't too bad either.
The Saints offense has been rather inconsistent the past few weeks, but the defense has been playing very well. New Orleans' defense held their last two opponents to only six points each. The opponents were the New York Giants and the Carolina Panthers, but this is still a well rounded group. Our pick for this NFL Week 16 Thursday Night Football matchup is as follows:
Los Angeles Rams 28 - New Orleans Saints 18
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