San Francisco had the luxury of sitting at home watching the New Orleans Saints dismantle the DetroitLions. The 49ers enjoyed a bye and will now host the Saints Saturday afternoon January 14 in an NFC divisional playoff.

The Saints played very well in their game against the Lions. Behind the play of quarterback Drew Brees, the Saints set new offensive records for yardage. The key to Saturday's divisional matchup will be how well Brees and his offense will react to the often dominating defense the 49ers possess. The 49ers success this season has been due to the much-improved defense as they gave up very few yards and even fewer points.

Time will tell if the old adage holds true that defense wins games. If the Saints can play as well in Candlestick Park as they have all season long at home, then they can beat the 49ers. However, that is easier said than done. The 626 yards they amassed on offense will not come as easy against a much better secondary of the 49ers. The San Francisco defense gives up just over 14 points per game and is fourth in the league in yardage giving up just over 308 yards per game.

Even though the Saints scored an impressive victory over the Lions, the Lions defense did have Brees not only backpedaling but also double pumping enough to take him out of his rhythm in the first half. The 49ers defense can cause even more mayhem for Brees and the Saints and use the raucous crowd to help them as well.

The Saints also may not be able to rely on tailback Darren Sproles, as the best part of the San Francisco defense is all about stopping the run. The game will be exciting, full of ebb and flow and the defense of San Francisco should carry them to victory.

New Orleans is 13-3 this year SU and 12-4 ATS. San Francisco is 13-3 SU and 11-4-1 ATS. In 4 of New Orleans' last 5 games the total has been OVER. In all 5 of San Fran?s last 5 games the total has been OVER at home versus the Saints.

SA Pick: We like S.F. 49ers at home getting points.

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