David Utnick, NFC South Analyst  

Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints

The Saints host their first division rival this week, the Atlanta Falcons who see to be the only team looking to give them a run for the NFC South title.  Coming off an impressive comeback victory over the Miami Dolphins the Saints have solidified themselves as the class of the NFC.  Drew Brees is leading this offense to just under 40 points per game, and their defense leads the league in takeaways. 

This is the recipe to a Super Bowl.                                                                                           

The Falcons are coming off a loss on the road to a Dallas Cowboys team that certainly benefited from the extra week of preparation.  Tony Romo obliterated this young Falcons defense, throwing for 311 yards and 3 TDS, be sure it will not get any easier against Drew Brees.  Tom Brady and Jay Cutler along with Tony Romo have thrown for 275+ yards this season vs. the Falcons D.                                                                

This game will be determined by matchups, the Saints passing attack versus the Falcons secondary for instance heavily favors New Orleans.  Their win over the Giants 2 weeks back showed exactly how the Saints will make you pay for mediocre pass D.  On the other hand, the Saints D especially Darren Sharper has the big playmaking ability which can make an offense mistake prone, or gun-shy to a passing game plan.  Matt Ryan has now thrown for four picks in his last two games, and Michael Turner continues to struggle with his yards per carry averaging about 2.8 last week and 3.4 on the season. 

Players to watch--ATLANTA

Matt Ryan & Roddy White--if this becomes a shootout it will be because Ryan will have a monster day throwing the ball.  The Falcons have playmakers on offense that can put up points in a hurry.

Jeremy Shockey/Marques Colston---Drew Brees’ two favorite receivers have combined for 8 TD catches on the season.

Prediction

Saints def Falcons 42-28. 

The Falcons have yet to prove they can beat elite teams on the road, and while next time the result may be different, the Saints easily will handle the Falcons in the Superdome.

Questions? Comments?

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