NFL Playoffs 2012: Key Stats for San Francisco 49ers vs. New Orleans Saints

When you think of the Saints led by Drew Brees, the monster stats jump out first. 

Deservedly so, as the quarterback has had a record-breaking season:

5,476 yards, 71 percent completion rate, 46 touchdowns and a 110.6 rating. 

But (pause for dramatic effect), lurking behind the impressive numbers are other stats that significantly improve the 49ers chance of upsetting the Saints. 

I'm not usually a stats guy, but these are hard to ignore. 

Superior, Inferior

Brees is having a superior season against mostly inferior opponents. Eleven of the Saints' 16 regular season games were against defenses ranked 21st or worse. 

Remember: The 49ers have arguably the best defense in the entire NFL.

Home Sweet Dome

The Saints are 9-0 at home this season, averaging 41.6 points and 507.4 yards per game, compared to 5-3 on the road with averages of 27.3 points and 441.6 yards. That's a two touchdown difference. 

Also, the Saints defense surrenders 24.5 points per road game. 

Remember: Saturday's NFC Divisional game will be played at Candlestick Park, home of the 49ers. 

The Saints have committed 12 of their 19 turnovers (65%) on the road. 

Remember: The 49ers lead the league with 38 forced turnovers, 23 of those while playing at home. 

Oh, and the New Orleans Saints have never won a single road playoff game in franchise history. Included in that is last year's stunning loss at the hands of a 7-9 Seattle Seahawks squad that had no business being in the postseason. 

The 2011-12 Saints are a great team, but are a different team when playing on the road. 

Have I mentioned the location of Saturday's game between the 49ers and Saints?