Weekly Preview: New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons

The regular season in the NFL is almost done. This season has been nothing short of amazing for the New Orleans Saints, and it might not be done yet. The Saints have two scenarios in which they would qualify for the postseason, albeit it’s wishful thinking. First, in each of those scenarios, the Atlanta Falcons are defeated. Let’s see how the Saints compare to their division opponents right now.

Atlanta Falcons Preview

As of right now, the Falcons are third in the NFC South. Their season has gone as most people would have anticipated. an average squad—not awful enough to lose to inferior teams, but not good enough to defeat elite ones either. Earlier in the season, they defeated the Saints.

There was one thing the Falcons did well in a lackluster season. This previous offseason, they signed Jesse Bates III, and it was a wise move. Being among the finest in the league, the ballhawk safety has proven to be well worth his salary.

On offense, I want to highlight one of their big men up front. Chris Lindstrom is one of the league’s best guards and is having a great season. He is PFF’s highest-rated guard and highest-rated run-blocking guard. Lindstrom may not get the love he deserves from the casual viewer, but he’s an absolute stud.

New Orleans Saints Preview

Coming off a 23-13 win against the Bucs, the Saints have to feel good about themselves. The offense looked in sync as QB Derek Carr completed 75% of his passes. He couldn’t have done this without TE Juwan Johnson, who had himself a day! He hauled in eight passes for 90 yards and a TD.

Jonathan Abram had a career day on the defensive side of the ball. He had five solo tackles, one forced fumble, and an interception. Saints first-round pick Bryan Bresee was also able to get to the QB totaling 4.5 sacks on the season.