The New Orleans Saints are off to a 1-2 start this season. This is not the start they were looking for in a season where they expected to be Super Bowl contenders. In this game against the Detroit Lions, Drew Brees will have to lead his team to victory.

The Saints are under .500 for many reasons. Michael Thomas has missed time with a high-ankle sprain which has disturbed the rhythm of the offense. All levels of the defense have been struggling. The secondary has been shaky while the linebacking group has been ineffective. The defensive front has been unable to create any pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

On the offensive end, Brees has missed Thomas. Alvin Kamara has been the team’s leading receiver this season. Brees has yet to form a consistent connection with Emmanuel Sanders or Tre’Quan Smith.

Moving forward, this will be important, even when Thomas returns. Brees will be going up against a mediocre defense in Detroit and this could be the game he breaks out.

Heading into Week 4, this is a must win game for the Saints. They are playing a lesser opponent and do not want to fall under .500. Here are three predictions for Brees in this matchup.