Five things the Lions (10-6) must do to beat the Saints (13-3) at the Superdome at 8 p.m. on Saturday.

1. The defensive line has to step up and put more pressure on Drew Brees. They will have a full, healthy group unlike when they lost to the Saints on Dec. 4. Brees is a handful and the Lions’ secondary will need help from the line to help contain him.

2. The secondary, which had its worst game of the season last week at Green Bay, has to shake it off and get back to playing like they did against Phili Rivers and the Chargers. They’ll get help with the return of Louis Delmas.

3. Matthew Stafford, aka Mr. 5,038, has to keep it up. Over the last four games he’s averaged 377 passing yards per game and has thrown 14 touchdown passes against just two interception. If he can pass for 377 yards against Saints he gives Lions a good chance.

4. The Lions have found success in the air, but it would only help if they can have some kind of running game against the Saints. Kevin Smith is healthy so that should help.

5. Attitude. These Lions take nothing for granted, several of them lived through the hell that was the 0-16 season in 2008. They’re hungry. They have something to prove to themselves and the world.

Prediction: Saints 42, Lions 38.

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