NFL Week 1 Game Preview: Atlanta Falcons vs Philadelphia Eagles

Who Dey? 

The Atlanta Falcons are without Julio Jones for the first time in nearly a decade. The new-look Falcons are a team looking to maintain an identity without Julio and in order to succeed, they must incorporate everyone despite not having many experienced offensive weapons. With Matt Ryan still at the helm, it is not unlikely that the team will still remain competitive, but finding the game changers on offense will be a season-long task. Is Calvin Ridley, Kyle Pitts, and Russell Gage the answer offensively? 

The Falcons are in desperate need of some consistency. Last season did not go well as the team changed head coaches during the season and are looking to create an identity. Currently, the defense is likely the strong point of the entire team as they have the most consistent players. 

Grady Jarrett is a guy. There is no doubt that he is the engine that makes the defense go and against a talented Eagles offensive line, his contribution will be more than necessary. Eagles LT Jordan Mailata just signed a 4-year contract extension and he is well worth it. As a matter of fact, the majority of the Eagles line are veteran players that are all consistent. Keep your eye on the upfront battle because that will dictate how this game goes. 

X-Factor

Let’s face it, the Falcons secondary is much more talented than the Eagles receiving room. However, the youth of the secondary is susceptible to mishaps. AJ Terrell and Fabian Moreau are two good corners that have shown why they are consistent starters. Rookie Reciever Devonta Smith is listed as WR1 and with good reason. The First Round Receiver is scary good and if he can get going against the Falcons secondary, it could be a long game. Against the dynamic, but unproven Eagles receivers, the Falcons secondary must step up and not allow a big game from the receivers and force the Eagles to keep the ball on the ground.

Keys To The Game

Get pressure on Jalen Hurts. That is the major key to victory for the Falcons. Jalen Hurts is not known for making many mistakes. He is not a super dynamic passer or runner, but he is a very consistent and a good game manager. Forcing Hurts to make mistakes will need to be the game plan because he will not beat himself. The Falcons defense has to make the difference in this game and give Matt Ryan the ball as many times as possible. 

Prediction

In this matchup, the Atlanta Falcons are the better team on paper. But with a group of dynamic young playmakers for the Eagles coming into the fold, the sleeper performances will come out of the receiver room. The defense has to keep the receivers at bay or this will be a long game for the Falcons. Matt Ryan and the offense will have no issues moving the ball against the Eagles secondary, but they cannot afford to give the Eagles offense extra possessions with turnovers.

Atlanta Falcons Win, 33-24

Writer

-By: LeMarkus Bailey