Week 9, Nov. 8: vs. Broncos
The amount of confidence that John Elway instills into Drew Lock tells me that he may be a really good quarterback. The Broncos had a GREAT offseason. They added weapons to Lock and the offense and acquired starters in both trenches and the secondary. Denver is going to be good, and maybe good enough to get the best of the Falcons for the second consecutive week. The production of Drew Lock is going to be paramount in this matchup, and as I alluded to earlier, people around Denver make it sound like Lock is ready to take that next step.
OUTCOME: LOSS, 5-4
*BYE*
Week 11, Nov. 22: at Saints
With the talent on this Falcons roster, I’d be surprised to see them lose three consecutive games, especially coming out of a bye. The Saints are coming off a game against San Francisco, which is likely to be a loss. New Orleans will also have a playoff spot in view, but I think the internal leadership in the Falcons front office will push them a little extra coming out of the bye week. It’s also worth noting that the Falcons, at 3-9, kept the final score a one-possession game. They fought incredibly hard in November.
OUTCOME: WIN, 6-4
Week 12, Nov. 29: vs. Raiders
The Raiders have a really talented and speed oriented offense with talent on defense, mostly in the middle. Still, I believe the Falcons can manhandle Las Vegas in the passing game. Atlanta’s offensive personnel has a clear advantage over the Raiders’ defense. However, it’ll be important for the defense to step up because a combination of Henry Ruggs, Josh Jacobs and Tyrell Williams isn’t shabby at all. Though, I think the Falcons are completely capable of shutting down the Raiders’ offensive weapons, and will come away with a win here.
OUTCOME: WIN, 7-4
Week 13, Dec. 6: vs. Saints
Okay, okay. The Saints are still an incredible team, though I hate to admit it. The truth is that they had a great offseason which only added to a good roster. I’m done with the New Orleans sweet talk. But, I’d be shocked if Atlanta swept the Saints because that usually never happens. The Falcons play really well in December though, so it’ll be interesting. Ultimately, I think the Saints come away with a victory here in Week 13.
OUTCOME: LOSS, 7-5