After such a great 2006 season, the Saints took a step back in 2007, but are they ready to rebound this year? Oddsmakers have listed New Orleans as a 20/1 long shot to win the 2009 Super Bowl.
The Saints did a nice job adding some key pieces in the offseason. First round pick Sedrick Ellis is going to add quite a lot in terms of a pass rush from the interior of the defensive line. Also, the cornerback spot opposite Mike McKenzie has always been an issue – has New Orleans finally found a quality right corner in former Patriots’ defensive back Randall Gay? Bobby McCray (Jaguars) was also added for depth along the defensive line.
The buzz around the Saints is loud this year because they appear to be one of the most improved teams in the NFC South – if not the entire NFC. Another key offseason move was acquiring linebacker Jonathan Vilma from the Jets. Vilma gives the linebacker corps a boost and with the additions of Ellis and Gay, the Saints look better on defense heading into 2008.
Current prices on the New Orleans Saints’ chances to win the 2009 Super Bowl range from 20/1 at Sportsbook.com and Bodog, to 25/1 at SBG Global.
Oddsmakers have also set the Saints’ over/under total for wins in 2008 at 8.5, but clearly think New Orleans will win more than 8.5 games considering the over pays out at –160 compared to +130 for the under.
The Saints already had an outstanding offense led by quarterback Drew Brees, wide out Marques Colston and running backs Deuce McAllister and Reggie Bush. Now they seem to have an improved defense, which should do wonders for their Super Bowl chances this year. Remember, this was a team just two years ago that fell one win shy of the Super Bowl, so New Orleans isn’t too far removed from being a top competitor. Sean Payton’s team could bounce back greatly in 2008.
New Orleans Saints Odds to Win 2009 Super Bowl
SBG Global 25-1
Bodog 20-1
Sportsbook.com 20-1
New Orleans Saints 2008 Regular Season Win Totals Odds
New Orleans Saints Over 8.5 Wins (-160)
New Orleans Saints Under 8.5 Wins (+130)