Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Location: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, LA
TV: NFL Network
The Jacksonville Jaguars travel to the Superdome to take on the New Orleans Saints in a Week 2 preseason matchup that will feature plenty of quarterback rotation and roster battles. Jacksonville is coming off a promising opening performance, while New Orleans will look to bounce back after an uneven start.
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Matchup Overview
Jacksonville enters as a 1.5-point road favorite with the total set at 40.5. The Jaguars are expected to feature C.J. Beathard and rookie McCallan Castles after Trevor Lawrence’s brief opening cameo, while the Saints will rotate Derek Carr’s backups, Jake Haener and Nathan Peterman, for most of the game.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Offensively, the Jaguars executed well in Week 1, with Beathard displaying efficiency on short and intermediate throws and RB Tank Bigsby running with power. The offensive line provided solid protection for most of the game. Defensively, Jacksonville forced two turnovers and limited explosive plays, showing strong tackling in the secondary. Special teams were effective, highlighted by a 46-yard field goal. Jacksonville is 4-1 ATS in their last five preseason contests.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints’ offense struggled with consistency last week, moving the ball between the 20s but stalling in the red zone. Haener showed poise but needs to improve on third-down conversions. On defense, New Orleans was stout against the run but allowed multiple completions over the middle. Special teams were a positive, with Blake Grupe perfect on field goals. The Saints have gone Under in five of their last seven preseason games at home.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Jaguars Passing Attack vs. Saints Secondary – Jacksonville’s quick passing game could test New Orleans’ coverage depth.
- Red Zone Efficiency – Both teams must improve on capitalizing inside the 20.
- Special Teams Accuracy – In a close preseason matchup, a single kick could decide the outcome.
Betting Odds
- Spread: Jaguars -1.5 / Saints +1.5
- Total (O/U): 40.5
- Moneyline: Jaguars -120 / Saints +100
(Odds via ESPN BET at time of writing — subject to change)
Prediction
Jacksonville’s sharper quarterback play and defensive discipline give them a slight edge in what should be a competitive game. New Orleans will keep it close with solid special teams, but Jacksonville’s execution should be the difference late.
Projected Final Score:
Jaguars 21 – Saints 17
- Total Points: 38 → ✅ Under 40.5
- Margin: 4 points → ✅ Jaguars cover -1.5
Best Bets
- Jaguars -1.5 (-110) – QB depth and defensive consistency favor Jacksonville.
- Under 40.5 (-110) – Expect a methodical pace with limited big plays.
- First Half Jaguars -0.5 (-110) – Early momentum likely goes to Jacksonville.
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