Falcons vs Cowboys Odds - Ryan will take advantage of poor Dallas pass rush
Falcons vs Cowboys odds looked very appealing when the schedule was released, but now sportsbook bettors aren't sure what to expect. Dallas has failed to live up to expectations, particularly when playing against a quality team. The Falcons, while a little unpredictable, have earned some quality wins this season. Will they blow out Dallas, or can the Cowboys get the win?
Falcons vs Cowboys odds: Cowboys -3.5 (total: 47)
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Falcons vs Cowboys odds maker breakdown: The Storyline
The Falcons are a punch 4-1 after a 21-14 win over Chicago on Sunday night. Atlanta proved it can steal a game it doesn't deserve to win after producing just 253 yards against the Bears. The victory ensured the Falcons still have a chance to catch New Orleans in the NFC South. Dallas is coming off a much-needed bye week. The 3-2 Cowboys have struggled badly and their three victories came off of very weak opponents (Tampa Bay, Carolina and Kansas City); their two loses were to the Giants and Broncos. A loss to Atlanta at home would seemingly prove the Cowboys as frauds to betting fans.
Falcons vs Cowboys odds maker breakdown: Offense
Atlanta's big guns followed up a ridiculous performance against San Francisco with a lackluster effort against Chicago. Matt Ryan threw two interceptions while Michael Turner had just 30 yards on 13 carries. The running game is critical for Atlanta and handing off the ball just 20 times total on Sunday wasn't enough. Expect to see Turner get a heavier workload against Dallas. The Cowboys will also run the ball. The bye week came at the perfect time, as the backfield is nicked up. Marion Barber's quad will be rested, and Felix Jones is rumored to be hoping for a Week 7 return. Tashard Choice will also be in the mix for Dallas. A strong running game will be crucial, as Tony Romo has been wildly inconsistent this season. Week 5 against the Chiefs was one of the good ones, when he threw for 351 yards and two scores. Betting Edge: Even
Falcons vs Cowboys odds maker breakdown: Defense
Atlanta's defense has been up-and-down this season, but it got the job done against Chicago. The Bears were able to move the ball reasonably well—Jay Cutler threw for 300 yards—but it finally slowed down an opposing running game while creating three takeaways. The Falcons also came up with a stop on the final drive of the game. The Cowboys are struggling to stop the pass, allowing 251 yards per game through the air. A poor pass rush has been especially problematic, as Dallas has recorded only 10 sacks this season. DeMarcus Ware, who led the NFL with 20 sacks a season ago, was held sackless through the first four weeks of the season. He finally picked up a pair in the win over Kansas City, so hopefully there's more where that came from. Betting Edge: Atlanta
Falcons vs Cowboys odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries
As mentioned, the Cowboys' backfield is bruised and banged up. Even if everyone plays, it wouldn't be surprising for someone to go down during the game. Several over players were nicked up, though the bye week should have helped. Falcons running back Jerious Norwood left Sunday's game with an injured hip and his status is unknown for Week 7. Betting Edge: Falcons
Falcons vs Cowboys odds maker: Totals (47)
At times, both squads have shown a total disinterest in playing defense, and each is loaded with offensive playmakers. This one has shootout written all over it. Pick: OVER 47
Falcons vs Cowboys betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick
The Cowboys have yet to knock off a quality opponent—a category Atlanta most likely fits into. The Falcons have been a little schizophrenic this season, but they're getting the job done. Matt Ryan is due for a bounce back game, and the young quarterback has proven to be very difficult to be sacked—he hasn’t been dropped since Week 1. Given the Cowboys' pass rush problems, Ryan should have plenty of time to pick apart a weak Dallas pass defense. STAN’S PICK: Falcons +3.5
The Betting Edge always has you covered for Falcons vs Cowboys odds and other NFL betting. D.J. Tomkins is one of betonline.com's NFL experts.
