It is a long shot, but at 5-8, the New Orleans Saints are still alive in the playoff race. They will need to win out and get help to get into the postseason.

Thursday, Dec. 17

NFL (7:25-11 p.m., NFLN): Former MSU star Johnthan Banks will try to help the Tampa Bay Buccaneers get a road win over the St. Louis Rams.

Friday, Dec. 18

College basketball (7-9 p.m., ESPNEWS): The University of Mississippi will face a tough test on the road against a normally strong basketball school in the Memphis Tigers.

Saturday, Dec. 19

College football (11a.m.-2:30 p.m., ABC): The first-ever Celebration Bowl will feature the Alcorn State Braves against the North Carolina A&T Aggies.

Sunday, Dec. 20

NFL (7:30-11 p.m., NBC): Former MSU star Fletcher Cox leads the Philadelphia Eagles defense against one of the best teams in the NFC, the Arizona Cardinals.

Monday, Dec. 21

NFL (7:30-11 p.m., ESPN): The Saints will try to keep their playoff hopes alive at home against the Detroit Lions who have already been eliminated from any chance of postseason play.

Tuesday, Dec. 22

College basketball (3-5 p.m., SECN): Before the UM Rebels take their Christmas break, they host Troy on the hardwood. ... College basketball (6-8 p.m., ESPN3): Southern Miss hits the road to face Tulane.

Wednesday, Dec. 23

College basketball (7-9 p.m., SECN): Mississippi State looks to get on track before SEC play with at match against Northern Colorado at Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson.

This week has plenty of bowl games to feast on with 11 from Saturday to Wednesday to check out as you get ready for the holidays.

Follow Bryan Flynn at jfpsports.com, @jfpsports and at facebook.com/jfpsports.