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Key Matchups to watch out for in the Falcons vs Saints game

By Joshua Driskell

Sep 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) is congratulated by quarterback Matt Ryan (2) after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders in the second quarter at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) is congratulated by quarterback Matt Ryan (2) after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders in the second quarter at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Atlanta Falcons take on the New Orleans Saints tonight at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, at 8:30 PM ET. Here are key matchups to watch for in tonight’s game.

The Atlanta Falcons are heading off to New Orleans for tonight’s Monday night brawl, and it will be interesting to determine the key matchups for tonight’s game. As we know, this is often the deciding factor in games such as this one, and this will certainly play a big role in tonight’s game.

The Falcons seem to have the advantage in terms of receivers and overall health, however the Saints have the advantage with things such as the offensive line, quarterback, and rushing attack. So, what exact matchups will be advantageous to the Falcons? And what exact matchups will the Saints have? Let’s take a look.

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Key Matchups #1: Falcons receiving core vs Saints defensive backs

The injuries to Saints defensive backs P.J. Williams and Kenny Vaccaro most definitely hurt their chances in today’s game. With both players sitting out of the game, along with Delvin Breaux, this leaves the Saints with Ken Crawley and De’Vante Harris matching up with Julio Jones and Mohammed Sanu. This gives the Falcons receivers a great opportunity to have a big game vs the Saints. Furthermore, the Falcons have two solid receiving backs, who can both make big plays underneath should Jones and Sanu happened to be locked up.

Key Matchups #2: Falcons front seven vs Saints offensive line

The Falcons don’t exactly have a strong front seven, however, this is a group of players who can make plays if they are called to. With players like Vic Beasley and Adrian Clayborn, the Falcons are looking to improve their pass rush. They have only recorded 1 sack in their first 2 games so far, but with Terron Armstead out, this front seven should be looking to make some plays against the Saints. Not only the pass rush, but the run defense has been solid this season as well, with the Falcons only allowing 1 rushing touchdown this season. This a trend the Atlanta Falcons look to continue, and these matchups could play a big part in deciding this game.

Key Matchups #3: Saint rushing attack vs Falcons rushing attack

The Falcons and Saints tend to pass more than than run. However, the Falcons and Saints both do have players who are capable of having big rushing games. The Saints have former Heisman Mark Ingram, and the Falcons have former college national champion, DeVonta Freeman. DeVonta flashed his abilities last year, and Mark Ingram came into the league ready to play. Although this aren’t direct matchups for these teams, this will definitely play a big part. Most of the touchdowns scored will be coming off of receptions, but it doesn’t hurt to run the ball.

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Overall, this game is filled with a variety of matchups that really could go either way. See a matchup you don’t agree with? Start a conversation in the comments below.

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