3 Reasons Saints Should Still Be NFC Favorites Over 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Arizona Cardinals last night and improved to 8-0 on the year. The Niners are one of the two remaining undefeated teams in the NFL this season, and although they are currently boasting the best record in the NFC, the New Orleans Saints should still be considered conference favorites.

Here are three reasons the Saints are still the team to beat in the NFC.

1. Drew Brees is Back

Teddy Bridgewater went 5-0 as the Saint's starter in Brees' absence. He was solid during this stretch, but he's no Drew Brees. The Future Hall of Famer threw for 373 yards vs. the Arizona Cardinals in his first game back, which shows he hasn't missed a step. The Saints' veteran quarterback is far superior to 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, who has only eclipsed 300 passing yards once this season and has operated mostly as a game manager. Having an esteemed quarterback like Brees is a major advantage for the Saints.

2. Friendlier Schedule

The 49ers have had a pretty soft schedule up to this point. However, they will face a much tougher schedule in the back half of the season. The Niners will face the Seahawks twice, as well as the Packers, Ravens, Saints and Rams. Conversely, the Saints toughest remaining game will be their matchup with the 49ers in Week 14. Based on strength of schedule in the second half, New Orleans seems positioned to finish the year with a better record.

3. Home-field Advantage in Head-to-Head Matchup

The Saints will be the home team for their Week 14 game against the 49ers. The Mercedes-Benz Superdome is a tough environment to play in for road teams. New Orleans will be the favorite in this game, and if they do in fact win, then they will have the tie breaker over San Francisco should both teams finish the year with the same record.