Writers Prediction League: Tottenham Hotspur vs. Southampton

Even. Tottenham Hotspur were unable to break through this past week, drawing with both Arsenal and Besiktas. Both matches finished 1-1 as subpar finishing doomed Spurs in both. Tottenham seem to have a better idea of their defense long-term, with Younes Kaboul starring against Arsenal and Vlad Chiriches struggling mightily vs. Besiktas. Spurs face a top attack this week in Southampton, so can Tottenham stabilize their defense and post a clean sheet?

In the way today is the Saints, sitting third in the table. Southampton's play so far has been stunning, not missing a beat despite losing a bevy of top players in the offseason. The game will mark Tottenham Hotspur manager Maurico Pochettino's return to Southampton, his former club. The Saints have been lead by their attack, as Graziano Pelle, Morgan Schneiderlin, Dusan Tadic and James Ward-Prowse have all shown well in early play. The defense has been staunch as well, only allowing four league goals so far. Can Spurs break through the formidable Saints' defense while making sure they solidify their own end?

As for the Prediction League, Mechanick dropped a perfect prediction last week.  The rules remain the same in the Prediction League -- one point for a correct prediction and a bonus point for getting the score correct. Here are the current standings:

This week's predictions:

Uncle Menno: We're at home against Pochettino's old team three days after we play what will probably be our second-toughest Europa League group fixture. What could possibly go wrong? 1-1 Draw.

Kevin: Southampton suck, 3-0 Spurs

Mechanick: Tottenham are coming off a tough Europa League match. Southampton have a staunch defense. 0-0 Draw

Ryan: I ate my twin in the womb. 2-1 Spurs.

Bryan A.: Schneiderlin scores a gorgeous opener and Stambouli scores an own goal despite not being in the match day squad. 2-1 Southampton. #Narrative

Ed: 3-0 Southampton. JWP scores the third and runs to the touchline to moon Pochettino.

Salmon Chase: I just watched patriot games for the first time. What a terrible piece of crap. 2-1 Spurs

Ben Daniels: Pochettino reminds Southampton fans why they spent all summer wailing and gnashing their teeth. 2-0 Spurs.

Dominic Wood: 1-1 Spurs blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.

Michael Caley: 2-1 Spurs. Not that I feel good about this, but home games are still supposed to be home games.

Skipjack: 2-1 Spurs. Illumittino

Brett Rainbow: 3-1 Spurs