Raiders vs Saints Predictions, Stats and More: NFL Week 3 Preview 2026
The Las Vegas Raiders vs New Orleans Saints matchup brings two of the NFL’s more intriguing early-season stories together in Week 3.
Las Vegas enters the game undefeated at 2–0, while New Orleans is 1–1 after opening the season with a narrow overtime loss to Detroit before defeating Baltimore on the road.
The Raiders have already beaten the Miami Dolphins and Los Angeles Chargers, while the Saints have demonstrated significant offensive firepower behind quarterback Tyler Shough.
Now the two teams meet at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Sunday afternoon.
The game is scheduled for 4:25 PM ET on September 27, 2026, and will be televised on CBS. It will also be available through Paramount+ when carried by the viewer’s local CBS station.
Raiders vs Saints Game Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Matchup | Las Vegas Raiders vs New Orleans Saints |
| Date | Sunday, September 27, 2026 |
| Kickoff | 4:25 PM ET |
| Pacific Time | 1:25 PM PT |
| Central Time | 3:25 PM CT |
| Venue | Caesars Superdome |
| Location | New Orleans, Louisiana |
| TV | CBS |
| Streaming | Paramount+ where available |
| Raiders Record | 2–0 |
| Saints Record | 1–1 |
| Raiders QB | Kirk Cousins |
| Saints QB | Tyler Shough |
| Current Spread | Saints around -3 to -3.5 |
| Current Total | Around 43.5 points |
The official Raiders and Saints game information confirms the Week 3 matchup, venue, records and CBS broadcast.
Raiders vs Saints 2026 Season So Far
Las Vegas Raiders: 2–0
The Raiders have been one of the better early surprises of the 2026 season.
Las Vegas opened the year with a 27–13 victory over the Miami Dolphins and followed it with a 26–14 road win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
That means the Raiders have scored at least 26 points in each of their first two games.
According to the Raiders’ official Week 3 preview, it is the first time since 2017 that Las Vegas has scored at least 26 points in consecutive games to begin a season.
The Raiders are averaging:
- 26.5 points per game
- 297.5 total yards per game
- 204 passing yards per game
- 93.5 rushing yards per game
- 13.5 points allowed per game
The defense has been particularly impressive, allowing only 13.5 points per game through two weeks.
New Orleans Saints: 1–1
New Orleans began the season with a heartbreaking 31–30 loss to the Detroit Lions, but the Saints responded with an impressive 24–17 road victory over the Baltimore Ravens.
The Saints have produced significantly more yardage than the Raiders.
New Orleans is averaging:
- 27.0 points per game
- 383.5 total yards per game
- 305.5 passing yards per game
- 78 rushing yards per game
- 24.0 points allowed per game
The Saints rank near the top of the league in passing offense, while their defense has been considerably less efficient than Las Vegas’ defense through two games.
Kirk Cousins vs Tyler Shough
One of the most interesting parts of Raiders vs Saints is the quarterback matchup.
Kirk Cousins
Cousins has gotten off to a productive start with Las Vegas.
Through two games, he has:
- 413 passing yards
- 6 touchdowns
- 3 interceptions
- 67.8% completion rate
- 100.5 passer rating
His six touchdown passes are tied for the NFL lead entering Week 3.
Cousins has also been efficient when given time in the pocket, but the Saints will have opportunities to pressure him.
A major question will be whether the Raiders can maintain their offensive efficiency against a New Orleans defense playing at home.
Tyler Shough Is Having a Strong Start
Tyler Shough has arguably been the biggest statistical story on the Saints offense.
Through two games, Shough has thrown for:
662 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions.
He has completed 68.9% of his passes and owns a 95.7 passer rating.
His first two games were dramatically different:
- Week 1 vs Detroit: 410 passing yards, 3 TD, 2 INT
- Week 2 at Baltimore: 252 passing yards, 1 TD, 0 INT
Shough’s 662 passing yards lead the NFL entering Week 3.
The Raiders will therefore face a quarterback who has already demonstrated the ability to produce big passing numbers.
Chris Olave vs Raiders Secondary
Chris Olave has been one of the most productive receivers in the NFL through two weeks.
He enters Week 3 with:
- 18 receptions
- 268 receiving yards
- 1 touchdown
- 14.9 yards per reception
Olave’s 18 receptions trail only Amon-Ra St. Brown for the league lead, according to the Raiders’ Week 3 preview.
That makes the Olave matchup one of the biggest factors in the game.
Las Vegas has allowed only 184 passing yards per game, which ranks 11th according to the Raiders’ official team comparison.
If the Raiders can prevent Olave from producing explosive plays, they can make life much more difficult for Shough.
Tre Tucker Could Be a Major Factor
The Raiders have their own dangerous young receiver in Tre Tucker.
Tucker currently leads Las Vegas with:
146 receiving yards.
He is averaging an impressive 20.9 yards per reception through two games.
His ability to create explosive plays could be particularly important against a Saints defense that has allowed 24 points per game.
Ashton Jeanty vs Saints Run Defense
Second-year Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty has already accumulated 150 rushing yards through two games.
His 44 rushing attempts have produced 150 yards, while he has also contributed 60 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns.
The matchup is interesting because New Orleans has struggled against the run.
The Saints are allowing approximately 136.5 rushing yards per game, compared with Las Vegas allowing only 100.5.
If Jeanty can establish the running game, the Raiders could make the Saints defense defend the entire field.
Raiders Defense vs Saints Offense
This could be the most important matchup of the game.
The Saints have the more productive offense statistically, but Las Vegas has the better defensive numbers.
Raiders defense through two games:
- 284.5 yards allowed per game
- 184 passing yards allowed per game
- 100.5 rushing yards allowed per game
- 13.5 points allowed per game
The Raiders are also generating significant pressure.
NFL.com’s Week 3 analysis cites a 45.6% pressure rate, the league’s best mark entering this matchup.
That could create problems for Shough.
The Saints have allowed eight sacks through two games, according to their official statistics.
Maxx Crosby and the Raiders’ defensive front will be looking to make Shough uncomfortable early.
Saints Offense vs Raiders Defense
New Orleans has produced 767 total yards through two games.
The Saints have generated:
- 662 passing yards
- 156 rushing yards
- 6 touchdowns
- 27.0 points per game
The passing game has been the clear strength.
Shough has already developed strong connections with Chris Olave, Devaughn Vele and Juwan Johnson.
Vele has 133 receiving yards, while Juwan Johnson has 120.
That gives New Orleans multiple receiving options rather than relying entirely on Olave.
Raiders vs Saints Injury Report
Injury news could significantly affect the matchup as the teams move toward Sunday.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders’ Thursday report listed:
- Brock Bowers — knee — limited Wednesday
- Nakobe Dean — shoulder — limited
- Folorunso Fatukasi — shoulder — limited
- Treydan Stukes — concussion — did not participate Wednesday
- Darien Porter — foot — limited
- Dareke Young — hamstring — limited
Brock Bowers is particularly important because NFL.com’s Week 3 analysis indicated that he was expected to return from his knee injury Sunday. His final game status should still be checked after the Friday report.
New Orleans Saints
New Orleans listed several players on its Thursday report:
- Barion Brown — hamstring — DNP
- Martin Emerson Jr. — shoulder — DNP
- Christen Miller — toe — DNP
- Travis Etienne Jr. — hamstring — limited
- Jonas Sanker — knee — full
- Nathan Shepherd — hip — full
- Chase Young — calf — full
- Kendre Miller — illness — DNP
These are practice statuses rather than final game designations, so the official Friday report and inactive list should be checked before kickoff.
Raiders vs Saints Betting Odds
The betting market currently has New Orleans favored at home.
Published Week 3 numbers include approximately:
- Saints -3 to -3.5
- Raiders +3 to +3.5
- Saints moneyline around -172 to -192
- Raiders moneyline around +144 to +160
- Over/Under around 43.5
Lines can move before kickoff, so these numbers should be treated as a snapshot rather than a fixed price.
Raiders vs Saints Prediction
This is a fascinating matchup because the two teams have very different statistical profiles.
The Raiders are undefeated and have the stronger defense through two games.
New Orleans, however, has the more productive offense and will be playing its 2026 home opener at Caesars Superdome.
The biggest question for Las Vegas is whether its defense can maintain its early-season pressure rate against Shough.
The biggest question for New Orleans is whether its defense can slow down Cousins, Jeanty and potentially Bowers.
The Saints’ offensive production gives them a significant weapon, but the Raiders’ defense has been much better at preventing points.
Projected Score
Las Vegas Raiders 24, New Orleans Saints 23
The projection calls for a close game that could come down to a late possession.
Raiders vs Saints Prediction Breakdown
| Category | Statistical Edge |
|---|---|
| Quarterback Production | Saints |
| Passing Offense | Saints |
| Receiving Production | Saints |
| Running Game | Raiders |
| Total Offense | Saints |
| Total Defense | Raiders |
| Points Allowed | Raiders |
| Pass Defense | Raiders |
| Home-Field Advantage | Saints |
| Early-Season Record | Raiders |
The statistics show a genuine contrast: New Orleans has generated 383.5 yards per game compared with Las Vegas’ 297.5, while the Raiders have allowed only 13.5 points per game compared with 24.0 for the Saints.
Players to Watch
Kirk Cousins
Cousins enters Week 3 with six touchdown passes and a 100.5 passer rating.
Tyler Shough
The Saints quarterback leads the NFL with 662 passing yards through two games.
Chris Olave
Olave’s 268 receiving yards make him one of the biggest threats in this matchup.
Ashton Jeanty
Jeanty leads the Raiders with 150 rushing yards.
Tre Tucker
Tucker’s 20.9 yards per reception gives Las Vegas a major explosive-play threat.
Brock Bowers
If Bowers is cleared to return, his presence could add another dimension to the Raiders offense.
Maxx Crosby
Crosby’s pass rush will be extremely important against a Saints offense that has already surrendered eight sacks.
Key Matchups
1. Maxx Crosby vs Saints Offensive Line
Can the Saints keep Shough clean?
That may be the biggest defensive question for New Orleans.
2. Chris Olave vs Raiders Secondary
Olave is producing at an elite rate, but Las Vegas has allowed only 184 passing yards per game.
3. Ashton Jeanty vs Saints Run Defense
New Orleans is allowing 136.5 rushing yards per game, creating an opportunity for Jeanty.
4. Kirk Cousins vs Saints Pass Defense
Cousins has six touchdown passes, but New Orleans will try to force him into difficult third-down situations.
5. Brock Bowers’ Availability
If Bowers returns, the Raiders’ offensive ceiling could change considerably.
Raiders vs Saints Fantasy Football
Chris Olave
Olave’s volume makes him one of the most important fantasy players in the matchup.
Kirk Cousins
Cousins has already thrown six touchdowns in two games and remains an attractive fantasy option.
Tyler Shough
Shough’s 662 passing yards give him significant upside, especially if the Raiders pressure him into a high-volume passing game.
Ashton Jeanty
Jeanty’s 150 rushing yards and receiving involvement give him multiple ways to produce fantasy points.
Brock Bowers
His fantasy value depends heavily on his final injury designation and workload.
Juwan Johnson
Johnson has 120 receiving yards through two games and has emerged as another useful target for Shough.
Raiders vs Saints Head-to-Head History
The Raiders currently lead the regular-season series 8–7–1.
The most recent meeting came on December 29, 2024, when Las Vegas defeated New Orleans 25–10.
The Raiders have won three of the teams’ last four meetings.
This is an interconference matchup, with Las Vegas representing the AFC and New Orleans representing the NFC.
What Could Decide Raiders vs Saints?
Turnovers
Cousins has three interceptions and Shough has two through two games. A turnover could dramatically change a close game.
Pressure
The Raiders’ pass rush against Shough is one of the biggest tactical battles.
Explosive Plays
Both teams have players capable of producing big plays. Tucker and Jeanty provide that ability for Las Vegas, while Olave and Vele have done it for New Orleans.
Red-Zone Efficiency
The team that turns more drives into touchdowns could gain the decisive advantage.
Home Field
The Saints are playing their first home game of the 2026 season at Caesars Superdome.
Why Raiders vs Saints Could Be One of Week 3’s Best Games
At first glance, this may not receive the same attention as some of the major Week 3 matchups.
But the statistical contrast makes it fascinating.
The Raiders are 2–0 and have allowed only 27 points in two games.
The Saints are 1–1, but they have produced 767 yards of offense and are averaging 27 points per game.
New Orleans has the league’s second-ranked passing offense at 305.5 yards per game, while Las Vegas ranks ninth in total defense at 284.5 yards allowed per game.
That sets up a classic strength-versus-strength matchup.
Raiders vs Saints FAQs
When is Raiders vs Saints?
Raiders vs Saints will be played on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
What time does Raiders vs Saints start?
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 PM ET, 3:25 PM CT and 1:25 PM PT.
Where is Raiders vs Saints being played?
The game will be played at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.
What channel is Raiders vs Saints on?
The game will be broadcast on CBS.
Can I stream Raiders vs Saints?
The game can be streamed through Paramount+ when the matchup is available on the viewer’s local CBS station.
What are the Raiders’ and Saints’ records?
Las Vegas enters Week 3 at 2–0, while New Orleans is 1–1.
Who is the Raiders quarterback?
Kirk Cousins is the Raiders’ starting quarterback.
Who is the Saints quarterback?
Tyler Shough is the Saints’ starting quarterback.
Who leads the Saints in receiving?
Chris Olave leads New Orleans with 268 receiving yards through two games.
Who leads the Raiders in rushing?
Ashton Jeanty leads Las Vegas with 150 rushing yards.
Who is favored in Raiders vs Saints?
Current published odds have the Saints favored by roughly three to three-and-a-half points, depending on the sportsbook and timing.
What is the Raiders vs Saints over/under?
The current total is around 43.5 points.
Final Raiders vs Saints Prediction
The Raiders enter New Orleans undefeated, with a defense that has allowed only 13.5 points per game.
The Saints counter with one of the NFL’s most productive passing attacks, led by Tyler Shough and Chris Olave.
This could ultimately come down to whether New Orleans can protect Shough against Las Vegas’ pressure or whether the Raiders can force the Saints into difficult third-down situations.
With the Saints at home and the Raiders bringing the stronger defense, this has the ingredients for a close game.
Final Prediction
Raiders 24 – Saints 23
Raiders vs Saints — Sunday, September 27, 2026 — 4:25 PM ET — CBS