San Francisco 49ers at New Orleans Saints: preview, NFL tip and injury report

Free NFL picks, tips and predictions for San Francisco 49ers at New Orleans Saints in Week 14 of the NFL.

Where to watch

Sky Sports Action, 6pm Sunday

Best bet

Under 44.5 points
1pt 13-14 RedZone

Game preview

San Francisco dropped down to fifth spot in the NFC playoff picture following a last-second defeat to Baltimore last week, and the 49ers could be in for another close clash when they take on New Orleans.

Although the California side have scored the second-most points in the league, it is their defence which has really flourished this season.

The have also conceded the second-fewest points and currently boast the best pass defence and overall defence in terms of average yards allowed per game.

That is sure to be of concern to Saints head coach Sean Payton, whose quarterback Drew Brees has thrown three touchdown passes in three of their last five games. They have been grounded at times and held to 13 or fewer points in four of their 12 games this season.

The 49ers also boast the number two run offence in the NFL, averaging 148 rushing yards a game. That is largely down to their trio of top running backs with Matt Breida, Tevin Coleman and Raheem Mostert all among the top 35 players for rushing yards.

However, they face a tall order to overcome a New Orleans defence who have allowed an average of 88 rushing yards per game - the third-fewest in the league.

Given the high stakes involved this contest could turn into a nervy affair similar to San Francisco's 20-17 loss last week. If both defences are at their best, points could be at a premium.

For more American sports analysis and tips, visit www.pickswise.com

The lowdown

Venue Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana
Surface Artificial
Weather Indoors
Vegas handicap San Francisco +2.5
Vegas points line 44.5

Injury report

San Francisco
Tight end George Kittle (knee), running back Matt Breida (ankle) and wide receivers Deebo Samuel (shoulder), Emmanuel Sanders (ribs) and Dante Pettis (knee) are all likely to play.

New Orleans
Guard Andrus Peat (arm) and linebackers Kiko Alonso (thigh) and AJ Klein (knee) are the Saints' biggest concerns.

Key stat

New Orleans defensive end Cameron Jordan has the second-most sacks in the league.

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