New Orleans Saints as Los Angeles Rams: Predictions, picks and odds for NFL Week 16 game

The NFL playoff race is heating up, and "Thursday Night Football" will pit two teams looking to get the upper hand on each other when the New Orleans Saints (7-7) visit the Los Angeles Rams (7-7).

There was no Tommy DeVito magic happening in the Caesars Superdome on Sunday as the Saints beat down the New York Giants 24-6. Derek Carr had one of his best games in his first season in New Orleans, while the defense continued to shine, not allowing a touchdown in two straight games. Not only do the Saints remain in a tie for first in the NFC South, but they also are right in the wild card picture.

The Rams resurgence continued last week with a home win against the Washington Commanders, giving Los Angeles four wins in its past five games. Receivers like Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua continue to make life easier for Matthew Stafford, and Los Angeles now sits in the No. 7 spot for the playoffs, hoping to hold onto the spot with another win this week.

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Rams vs. Saints odds, moneyline, over/under

The Rams are favorites to defeat the Saints, according to the BetMGM NFL odds. Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering NFL betting promos in 2023, including the new ESPN BET app.

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• Spread: Rams (-4)
• Moneyline: Rams (-210); Saints (+170)
• Over/under: 45.5

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NFL Week 16 odds, predictions and picks

Rams vs. Saints | Steelers vs. Bengals | Chargers vs. Bills | Falcons vs. Colts | Panthers vs. Packers | Texans vs. Browns | Vikings vs. Lions | Jets vs. Commanders | Titans vs. Seahawks | Buccaneers vs. Jaguars | Bears vs. Cardinals | Dolphins vs. Cowboys | Broncos vs. Patriots | Chiefs vs. Raiders | Eagles vs. Giants | 49ers vs. Ravens

Lorenzo Reyes: Rams 24, Saints 18

In what’s a crucial game for the NFC wild-card picture, the Saints are weak against the run, ranking 24th in the league in rushing defense. Rams running back Kyren Williams has been ultra-productive over the last month and L.A. wins when he does well. The recipe here is clear.

Tyler Dragon: Rams 23, Saints 20

This primetime game has playoff implications. Both these 7-7 teams are fighting for wild-card spots in the NFC. Derek Carr is coming off a three-touchdown game, but he’s struggled with consistency in a New Orleans uniform. Rams WR Puka Nacua (1,163) needs 311 more receiving yards to set the NFL’s single-season receiving yards record by a rookie. Cooper Kupp, Nacua and the Rams offense should be able to outscore the Saints in what is an important game for both clubs.

Safid Deen: Rams 24, Saints 18

It’s a shame the Rams are just 7-7, but their major players – Matt Stafford, Cooper Kupp, Kyren Williams and Puka Nucua – are finally healthy. The Rams will make the playoffs if they can stay that way and should beat the Saints at home on Thursday night.

Victoria Hernandez: Rams 24, Saints 19

The Saints were impressive last week with a three-touchdown performance from Derek Carr. But the Rams, boosted by back-to-back 100-yard games from Cooper Kupp, are playing strong as they clamor for a playoff spot and should notch this home win.

Jordan Mendoza: Rams 20, Saints 17

This is going to be one of the better matchups of the week, as the Saints' defense has made life tough for offenses while the Rams' offense has been clicking in recent weeks. It won't be as big of a performance, but Los Angeles has too many weapons at its disposal to be limited, as the Rams win another win and keep their playoff spot.

You can view the full list of USA TODAY's NFL expert predictions here.

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