With a week 1 win against the Green Bay Packers, the Atlanta Falcons come to Philadelphia in Week 2. The Falcons had a disappointing home opener last week, falling to the Pittsburgh Steelers 18-10. There was a lot of hype and expectations around the Falcons this year, but they didn’t meet those last Sunday. However, there’s still a ton of talent on the Falcons and they would want nothing more than to reverse course and get a win against the Eagles.
The Falcons had some major offensive struggles, but their defense played well. They’re a sound and smart unit with good coverage and a few awesome defensive linemen. They’re going to be coming with a chip on their shoulder. However, there’s one aspect of this Eagles vs Falcons matchup that will be the game-changer. The Eagles defensive line needs to dominate.
An Underwhelming Week 1 on the Defensive Front
One of the few blemishes of the Eagles’ performance against the Packers was the defensive line play. It was not horrible, but it didn’t live up to the expectations and standards of past Eagles teams. They gave up 166 yards on the ground and were consistently gashed against the run. Now, they’re up against an even better run-blocking offensive line, and an ultra-talented running back in Bijan Robinson. Despite Zach Baun having an awesome game, the newly named starter, Nakobe Dean, had a mixed bag. He was able to make some awesome plays but had moments where you wanted more from him.
Expect to see a lot of five-man fronts again for the Eagles. Jalen Carter will always have a big impact in every game he plays. Yet, this needs to be a game where Jordan Davis, Milton Williams, and Moro Ojomo shine in the trenches. If they don’t the Falcons will keep Hurts and the offense off the field. Even worse, if Hurts were to make a few more mistakes, the Eagles could find themselves trailing late in the game, with Robinson and the Falcons running the clock out.
The Eagles Need Major Improvements on the Edges
While the run defense was a problem against the Packers, the pass rush is even scarier. Aside from Jalen Carter and Brandon Graham the defensive line wasn’t even getting close to Jordan Love. Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith, and new free agent signing Bryce Huff were practically invisible all game. Last week, Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins was harassed all game by the Steelers defensive line. While it only resulted in two sacks, the pressure affected him greatly.
Cousins didn’t look very comfortable in his first start with the Falcons after his injury last year. However, fans know what Cousins is capable of with good protection in the pocket. If they cannot make life hard for Cousins, then he could very well make it a long night for the Eagles’ defense. That puts a ton of pressure on the edge rushers, especially Bryce Huff. Not having enough of a pass rush could be the difference between a good and great Eagles team. This Eagles vs Falcons matchup is a perfect opportunity to quell those concerns. It would also squash the Falcons chances on Monday night.
Eagles vs Falcons Predictions
For fans of the NFL trenches or people with fetishes for watching two semi-trucks run into each other at full speed, Jalen Carter versus the Falcons right guard, Chris Lindstrom, will be an awesome watch. Overall, it will be a good physical battle between the trenches of the Falcons and the Eagles. While it would be a pleasant surprise, don’t expect the Eagles offense to move the ball down the field as much as they did against the Packers. The Falcons have a sound defense and they’ll be prepared for what the Eagles want to do. Expect a fairly surprising close game throughout, but the defense to come through in the fourth quarter and see the game out for the Eagles.
Eagles Win 24-16
Other Prop Bets: (Record 3-0)
Saquon Barkley Any-Time Touchdown Scorer
Devonta Smith 5+ Receptions
Devonta Smith 60+ Receiving Yards
Main Image: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
