Saints: 3 reasons New Orleans will win the NFC South crown in 2023

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Jan 8, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints head coach Dennis Allen talks with referee Alex Kemp (55) about a pass against the Carolina Panthers during the second half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 3: NFC South Is Ripe For The Picking

The final point is arguably as important as the previous two entries. Most teams require at least ten wins for a reasonable chance of wearing the divisional crown. However, the two southern divisions stick out like a sore thumb.

Last season, the Bucs qualified for the playoffs with a losing record. Going further, the Jaguars won the AFC South with only nine wins on the year. This opens the door for the Saints to win the NFC South if they can claw their way back to the nine-win mark.

Tampa Bay no longer employs the greatest quarterback of all time, with Tom Brady riding off into the sunset after the 2022 NFL season. The Panthers landed Bryce Young with the No. 1 overall pick, but that roster is probably still a season or two away from being a legitimate contender.

Right now, I expect the NFC South to come down to the Falcons and Saints. Atlanta is turning over the franchise to second-year signal-caller Desmond Ridder. While I am a known Ridder truther, it is fair to wonder if the defense is strong enough for the youngster to lean on when things get tough.

New Orleans has a direct line to a playoff berth in 2023. From the addition of Carr to the improving health of the roster to the winnable division — watch out for the new-look Saints!

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