Can the Broncos win in Sean Payton’s return to New Orleans on Thursday Night Football
The New Orleans Saints will host the Denver Broncos on Thursday Night Football to kick off the Week 7 NFL slate. It may not be the most attractive primetime NFL game, but it should be close with both teams needing a win.
Thursday’s game will also mark Broncos head coach Sean Payton’s return to New Orleans. After coaching in New Orleans for 16 years, Payton stepped away and took a year off. He was then hired at the Broncos head coach in 2023. Payton drafted his rookie quarterback this year in Bo Nix to hopefully create some of the same offensive spark that he had with Drew Brees.
The Saints are in a bit of a spiral after starting 2-0. They have since lost four straight and will be without their top two wide receivers. Additionally, Derek Carr will be missing his second straight game. Therefore, rookie Spencer Rattler will be getting another start. Rattler had some strong moments in his first NFL start, but struggled at times as well.
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Broncos are 2.5-point favorites on the road. While the Broncos are favored, Payton will know that is a tough place to play, especially in primetime. The Saints kept things close in the first half against the Buccaneers last week and despite injuries offensively, they should be able to do so once again. With that said, Payton will want to win in his return to the Super Dome.
The Pick: Broncos (-2.5)
Season Record: 9-11
