Packers vs. Saints Week 1: Game could have playoff implications

The Packers’ season opener against the Saints could make a difference when it comes to the playoffs.

It might only be Week 1, but don’t underestimate the potential importance of the Green Bay Packers‘ opener versus the New Orleans Saints.

Last season, the Packers were the number one seed ahead of the Saints. Green Bay finished one win ahead of New Orleans. Back in Week 3, the Packers defeated the Saints on the road.

That result proved to be the difference between the NFC’s top two seeds. The victory early in the season helped lead the Packers to a first-round bye in the playoffs and home-field advantage. Had the Saints won their divisional-round game, it would’ve meant they had to play the Packers at Lambeau Field in the NFC Championship Game.

That’s not to say Sunday’s game will determine the top seed in the NFC, but it could prove to be an important factor when it comes to seeding in the postseason.

The winner will take the all-important head-to-head tiebreaker. That could be the difference in seeding if the teams finish with the same record.

Even without Drew Brees at quarterback, the Saints’ roster is talented enough to remain playoff contenders this season. The Packers, with the majority of their key starters from last year returning, should again contend for the NFC title.

Even if the two teams don’t finish with the same record, a victory here helps in the conference record standings. That, too, can be huge when it comes to playoff seeding.

Divisional games are the most important on the schedule. Win your division games and you set yourself up for the division title, and that ensures at least one home playoff game.

Make the postseason, and many other tiebreakers could come into play for seeding. Winning big games like this one will help.