NFL Predictions Week 5: Panthers vs. Saints and 3 Games Sure to Be Shootouts

After five games last week featured 55 combined points or more, it’s looking like another good week for offense in the NFL. Here are three games where points will be plentiful on both sides.

Panthers vs. Saints

As Aaron Rodgers and Matt Schaub have proven, the Saints pass defense can be beaten for big numbers, giving Cam Newton a chance to put up another huge game in what has already been an admirable rookie effort. Meanwhile, a Panthers team that has already lost three shootouts is set up to lose a fourth against Drew Brees’ high-powered attack.

Even if the Saints look to run the ball and kill clock later in the game (presuming that they’ll be on top), Carolina’s wretched run defense may still give up some big plays that will keep the scoreboard jumping.

Lions vs. Bears

With the exception of their Week 2 demolition of lowly K.C., the Lions defense has been vulnerable this season. While the odds are good that Matthew Stafford’s high-powered attack will come out on top, the up-and-down Bears will get their points as well.

Considering that Tony Romo was dinged up last week, the case could be made that Jay Cutler is the most dangerous QB Detroit has faced this season. Expect him to turn the ball over—the Lions picked off Romo three times—but also to put up a few big plays in his own right.

Texans vs. Raiders 

Even with Andre Johnson out of action, it’s hard to imagine the Raiders iffy defense standing up to Matt Schaub’s offense at Reliant Stadium. However, the Raiders offense will get its points as well.

Houston has struggled to stop the run, and Darren McFadden has impressed regardless of the opposition this season. If the Texans load up in the box to stop McFadden, even Jason Campbell will be able to make plays through the air.

If, however, the Houston defense stays honest against the pass, McFadden will torch them and keep Oakland in the game by himself.