Saints Giving Shocking Prediction for Week 3 Matchup with Raiders

The New Orleans Saints have a big matchup ahead against the Las Vegas Raiders. It's bigger than we expected in preseason because of how well the Raiders have performed of late.

Las Vegas earned a surprising win over the Las Angeles Chargers. Now some expect the Raiders to pull an upset. One such analyst predicted Las Vegas to win what could be Week 3's instant classic of the week.

ESPN NFL analyst Ben Solak predicts that the Saints game against the Raiders will be the game of the week. Here's what Solak wrote on the topic.

"There are a couple of good contenders in Patriots-Jaguars and Rams-Broncos. But I want to see the Saints put together a complete game on offense, and they face a stiff Raiders defense that has impressed with speed and pressure from their front seven. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has made it work without tight end Brock Bowers so far, but the Saints should present the toughest defense they've drawn through three weeks. Give me a 23-21 win by the Raiders, with a game-winning kick to end a contest that was within one score the whole way."

The prediction is not in any way the result the Saints want, nor do they want a great game. The Raiders have proven if you allow them to stay in the game, they will make you pay. A loss could significantly set them back in their divisional race. A win could cement the Saints as a premier contender in the division.

Peaking across that NFC South division, ESPN NFL analysts have a Carolina Panthers receiver breaking out and announcing himself as an elite receiver on Sunday against the Cleveland Browns. Matt Bowen predicted that Panthers wideout Jalen Coker will go for three touchdowns on Sunday. Here was his prediction.

"Coker has quickly emerged in Carolina's offense, catching 16 of 18 targets for 204 yards so far -- including two touchdowns in Week 1 against the Bears. The Panthers also like to get Coker the ball in scoring position. He already has targets on red zone throws from quarterback Bryce Young, and I expect more on Sunday in Cleveland."

We are still unmoved by the Raiders' win over the Chargers. The Cardinals also secured a big win over Los Angeles this year, and crazy upsets happen in the early going.

Las Vegas is not be to be overlooked, but the Saints should have enough to secure the win. Saints quarterback Tyler Shough will hope to keep up the high level of play and earn a win on Sunday.