Week 4: New England at Atlanta

Keys to the Game:

New England: It looks at least one more week before Brady gets some of his targets back so it would be nice if last years’ Stevan Ridley could show up.

Atlanta: The Falcons need to step it up in red zone. They moved the ball well against the Dolphins but all too often had to settle for field goal attempts and it cost them the game.

Verdict: WIth Gronkowski and Amendola still missing for the Patriots and the Falcon’s WRs not 100% this is not the game it could be if it were played in a few weeks time. The total points line seems high as these two offenses continue to splutter a little.

Prediction: Atlanta by 3

Suggested Bet: 2 points Under 49.5 points at 10/11

Week 3: Atlanta at Miami

Keys to the Game:

Atlanta: The Dolphins struggle against TEs so expect plenty of targets for Tony Gonzalez.

Miami: Lamar Miller gave the Dolphins enough of a running threat to open up the passing game and the 14 rushes he had last week need to be a minimum.

Verdict: The injuries to Steven Jackson and Roddy White expose the lack of play maker depth on the Falcons roster. Miami can take advantage in a close game and win by a field goal.

Prediction: Miami by 3

Suggested Bet: No bet

 

St. Louis at Atlanta

Keys to the Game:

St. Louis: The Rams have an exciting offensive trio that could develop into something ‘Saints’ like. For Colston, Graham and Sproles, read Givens, Cook and Austin. All three need to have big days to pull off the upset.

Atlanta: Steven Jackson had just 11 carries last week in a strange looking game plan. The Falcons need to commit to a more balanced attack, especially with Roddy White not 100%.

Verdict: The Falcons better be 100% ready and up for this or they will find themselves 0-2 against an underrated Rams side. Ryan finds a way to win this but they won’t cover the handicap.

Prediction: Atlanta by 3

Suggested Bet: No Bet

Atlanta at New Orleans

Keys to the Game:

Atlanta: With White and Jones on the outside and Gonzalez and Jackson (out of the backfield) over the middle, Ryan and the Falcons should be able to move the ball consistently against the Saints. They must convert red zone trips into touchdowns.

New Orleans: Look for an early deep shot to Kenny Stills to open up the middle of the field for the likes of Colston, Graham, Moore and Sproles.

Verdict: Drew Brees and Matt Ryan combined for 33 interceptions last season. In a game that will almost certainly be high scoring the team with the most possessions will likely emerge with the win. The addition of Steven Jackson gives the Falcons a better balance than last year and if they can survive the emotional return of Sean Payton they can grab an early advantage in the division.

Prediction: Atlanta by 4

Suggested Bet: 1 point Atlanta +3 at 20/21