The New Orleans Saints (3-10) host the Carolina Panthers (7-6) at Caesars Superdome on Sunday. The Saints won 17-7 in the first meeting in November. Here are the predictions from our staff for the second meeting between the NFC South teams. 

Jeff Duncan (Season record: 7-6)

Panthers 21, Saints 20: This was a difficult call, given how thoroughly dominant the Saints were against the Panthers just a few weeks ago. But Carolina has played well since then and has all of the intangible factors on its side. Regardless, this feels like a game that will be decided in the final minutes and by the team that makes the fewest mistakes.

Zach Ewing (Season record: 8-5)

Panthers 20, Saints 16: Bryce Young has never thrown for more than 171 yards in a game against the Saints, and the New Orleans defense has been trending up over the past month. That’s a recipe for a close game, and if the gains Tyler Shough and the offense have made are for real, this can be another NFC South upset. But I also remember the last time we had this conversation, and the Saints fell flat on their face the next time out.

Luke Johnson (Season record: 8-5)

Saints 27, Panthers 23: I have been hoodwinked by this team in this prediction space a few times this season, allowing a good performance the previous week to change how I view the team. And here I am, doing it again. I do think the Panthers are the better team and have proven that by knocking off some of the NFL’s best this season. I also believe we’re seeing the start of something with Tyler Shough.

Matthew Paras (Season record: 7-6)

Panthers 19, Saints 16: I have no idea what to do with this one. The Saints have always tormented Bryce Young, and the defense has made meaningful strides over the last month. But this game means so much to the Panthers, and they’re coming off a win over the Los Angeles Rams, that I see them edging it out. And uh, I haven’t picked a Saints win right this year, so why start now? 

Rod Walker (Season record: 8-5)

Saints 24, Panthers 16: Tyler Shough is 2-3 since taking over as the starter. Both wins came on the road. This will be his second start in the Dome. Assuming he continues to make strides and the defense plays as well as it’s been playing, this is a chance for the first two-game winning streak of the Kellen Moore era. Best guess here is the Saints get it done and continue their spoiler role in the NFC South.Â