Atlanta Falcons: 5 Players to Watch Vs. New York

By John Buhler | Sep 19, 2015

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Aug 14, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker Vic Beasley (44) rushes Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8, right) as offensive tackle Taylor Lewan (77) blocks Beasley in the first quarter of a preseason NFL football game at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

44. . OLB. Clemson. Vic Beasley. 44. player

We’ve seen glimpses of the star pass rusher that Vic Beasley can become for his hometown team, the Atlanta Falcons. Vic batted down a crucial third down passing attempt from QB Sam Bradford last week. Perhaps he can do it again in Week 2, this time against Eli Manning.

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The opposition has had to account for Vic Beasley when he’s on the field. It’s a sign of respect from his impressive college career at Clemson. However, Atlanta brought him in to get after the opposing quarterback and record double-digit sacks for the Falcons annually.

Will Vic Beasley get his first career NFL sack on Eli Manning in this one? I think he does. It will come on a third down passing situation where the Giants’ offensive line can’t contain both Beasley and Adrian Clayborn. One will set up the other to make the play. Since Vic did it for Clayborn in the preseason, I see Vic forcing the Giants to punt after Manning’s sack.

If you didn’t figure it out, coincidentally, all five players to watch versus the New York Giants this week were former 1st round picks by the Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan in 2008, Julio Jones in 2011, Desmond Trufant in 2013, Jake Matthews in 2014, and this year’s 8th overall selection Vic Beasley. Only one more day until it’s time to Rise Up again Atlanta Falcons fans.

Next: Atlanta Falcons: How to Improve on Offense Vs. Giants

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