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The Las Vegas Raiders (3-12) are set to face the New Orleans Saints (5-10) at the Caesars Superdome on Sunday, December 29, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 PM EST on FOX. Both teams find themselves out of the playoff race and struggling with a slew of injuries. This article will analyze the matchup and offer insights for bettors eager to engage with this game.
Previewing the Raiders vs. Saints Showdown
Can a Single Victory Change the Raiders’ Trajectory?
Las Vegas recently ended a 10-game losing streak with a narrow 19-14 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. In that game, the Raiders managed to outgain the Jaguars 314 to 308 in total yards while also leading in first downs, 21 to 15. Aidan O’Connell stood out, throwing for 257 yards without any turnovers.
While winning might have brought temporary relief, the Raiders’ draft prospects took a hit, plunging from a top-2 position to No. 6, which could hinder their pursuit of elite quarterback talent in the 2025 NFL Draft. Offensively, Las Vegas struggles, ranking in the bottom five for points per game, total yards, and yards per play, while also occupying the last spot in rushing yards. Defensively, however, they allow 26 points per game, placing them 27th in the league, despite being in the top 10 for yards allowed per play and game.
With Gardner Minshew on injured reserve, O’Connell will continue as the starter. He has completed 63.2% of his passes this season, amassing 1,156 yards with four touchdowns and three interceptions.
The Raiders have a record of 6-8-1 against the spread this season, with an over/under record of 8-7 in their games. They have struggled on the road, with just one win in eight attempts.
The Saints: A Season of Uncertainty
The New Orleans Saints began their season strong, winning their first two games, but quickly fell into a seven-game losing streak that led to the firing of head coach Dennis Allen. Since then, they have managed to go 3-3 but are coming off a disheartening 34-0 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
New Orleans’ performance against the spread has mirrored their struggles, with a record of 6-9, and they are 7-8 on the over/under, having seen their last four games fall short of the total. Their home record is also concerning, standing at 3-5.
Offensively, the Saints rank 22nd in the league, averaging 20.6 points per game and 17th in yards per play at 5.5. On the defensive side, they allow 23.1 points per game, ranking 16th, yet they find themselves in the bottom four for total yards and rushing yards allowed.
The team is grappling with significant injuries, including quarterback Derek Carr and star running back Alvin Kamara, who will both miss the upcoming game. Wide receiver Chris Olave is listed as questionable, and versatile player Taysom Hill is out for the remainder of the season.
In their recent loss, rookie Spencer Rattler took the helm but struggled, completing 15 of 30 passes for 153 yards and one interception. He also led the team in rushing with 28 yards, reflecting the overall offensive difficulties the team is facing.
Betting Insights for Raiders vs. Saints
