I don’t believe that the Vikings will be able to cover New Orleans’ receivers. Sure, they were able to shut down the Cowboys, but the Saints offense is far better than Dallas’. Even if Minnesota is able to generate pressure on Drew Brees, I still believe that Brees’ quick release would allow New Orleans to throw the ball successfully. The Vikings should be able to score fairly efficiently on the Saints’ defense, but the home crowd will lead New Orleans to a close victory on Sunday evening. If this game were in Minnesota, I would feel differently. I guess that’s what the Vikings get for losing to the Bears late in the season.

Prediction: Saints 38, Vikings 31.

-- STANLEY KAY

I’ve gone back and forth on this game for a while and honestly have no clue how to predict it. Both teams have great offensive depth and are capable of exploding for 40 points. The Vikings have a few more playmakers on defense, but the Saints homefield advantage will be key. Favre has been shaky in hostile environments in the past, but he’s been so good this year it’s hard to doubt him.

One surprising battle, which could emerge, is between the two running games. Adrian Peterson came into the year universally hailed as the best running back in the NFL, but he enters Sunday as a talented back with a fumbling problem. Reggie Bush is not an every down back but his perimeter elusiveness could provide problems for Minnesota’s interior run-stuffers.

On paper these teams are a wash, so I have to pick this game based on the one clear advantage the Saints have, Sean Payton. Brad Childress is a ticking time bomb. He has basically a Pro Bowl roster, which is why he’s coaching Sunday, but he’s never proven to be a particularly capable head coach. The fact that he fought with Brett Favre earlier this year is just icing on the cake. This one should go down to the wire as Favre and Peterson will both have nice games but look for the Saints to finally get to that Super Bowl.

Prediction: Saints 34, Vikings 30.

-- TOMMY ALTER