All is not well in Atlanta

By Adam Sweeney  |   Thursday, October 23, 2008  |  Comments( 4 )

Atlanta Falcons
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The Falcons have been one of the biggest surprises in the NFL this season and, en route to a 4-2 start, have given their fans a lot to cheer about. But it hasn't been a perfect season and the Falcons could find themselves prey to the Philadelphia Eagles this weekend. The bye week did Philly well and its biggest weapon, running back Brian Westbrook, is finally looking like he's recovered from a pair of broken ribs. That's not a good thing for an Atlanta defense that gives up 349.7 yards a game.

Commentary: Much of the Falcons' defensive responsibility will be put on end John Abraham, who has seven sacks so far this season. If he can get to quarterback Donovan McNabb it will go a long way toward helping a defense that ranks 26th against the pass. If that doesn't happen, then McNabb is going to have all day to pick apart cornerbacks Chris Houston and Brent Grimes. Both could be worn down by game's end after chasing a speedster like wide receiver DeSean Jackson all over the field.

While the Falcons have an offense that is ranked ninth in the NFL, they are facing a seventh-ranked defense that has renewed its commitment to stopping the run. Running back Michael Turner struggled earlier this season against the defenses of Chicago, Tampa Bay, or Carolina -- all of which are top 15 versus the run. Philly is ninth in that department, which doesn't bode well for Turner.

Quarterback Matt Ryan has displayed maturity and leadership beyond his years, but he can't be expected to engineer a fourth-quarter comeback every week. If the Falcons can't find a way to contain Westbrook, McNabb and the talented Eagles offense, it'll likely end in a third defeat for Atlanta.

Fan Pulse: Falcons couch warriors think that the 2008 season has a lot to do with fate: http://life.atlantafalcons.com/index.php?showtopic=3809170.

Fantasy Football Commentary: A trade for WR Roddy White could go a long way toward solving your receiving issues. I didn't anticipate saying this in the preseason, but a Terrell Owens-for-White deal could end up in your favor now that Cowboys QB Tony Romo won't be back until at least Nov. 16. White has gone over 90 yards receiving four games in a row. Catch him if you can.

Injury Watch: WR Laurent Robinson was a full participant in Wednesday's practice. He should play Sunday versus Philadelphia.
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About Adam Sweeney

Adam Sweeney spent 4 years as an opinions and arts & entertainment columnist with the Lone Star Lutheran, also working with Sports Illustrated.com. Along with his work on Realfootball 365 he currently is a contributor for Film School Rejects, SLAM Online, Talkhoops.net, and C-Heads ...
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