The New Orleans Saints won 13 games for the fourth time in the Sean Payton-Drew Brees era this season and again are considered strong contenders to win the Super Bowl.



As the No. 3 seed in the NFC, they face historically long odds to do so. The last No. 3 seed to win the Super Bowl was the 2006 Indianapolis Colts. Only three No. 3 seeds have reached the NFC Championship Game.



Yet, despite the daunting history, the Saints remain the second favorites in the conference to make it to Miami and win Super Bowl LIV, according to Las Vegas oddsmakers.



The low odds say a lot about the talent and ability of this Saints team. Despite losing quarterback Drew Brees to an injured thumb for five games early in the season, the Saints reeled off six consecutive wins and went 7-1 on the road.



So where does this Saints team rank among the best ones of the Payton-Brees era? In terms of sheer talent and star power, it ranks right at the top. And it might be the most...