Patriots Falcons Betting – Falcons Protect Homefield With Win Over Pats
Online betting players are expecting a lot out of Atlanta this season after a disappointing effort last year, but the Falcons appear to be ready heading into Thursday’s preseason meeting with New England, who are coming off an opening win over the defending Super Bowl champions. We’re going Atlanta to take advantage of a New England team that will take their foot off the gas a little in this game.
- What: NFL betting
- When: Thursday, August 19th, 8:00 PM ET
- Where: Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA
- Pick: Atlanta Falcons
What’s On The Line
The Patriots earned a small measure of revenge for a big loss in New Orleans last year with a 27-24 win over the Saints at home in their preseason opener, needing a field goal with 53 seconds left. The Falcons came away with a 20-10 win over Kansas City at home, and they were particularly strong defensively.
Offensive Matchups: Patriots Falcons Betting
Tom Brady and the first team were effective for the Patriots, who gained 204 yards through the air and another 125 on the ground, while Julian Edelman had six catches to lead the way. Edelman may be crucial this year, especially early as Wes Welker is still working his way into shape after last year’s knee injury, and now Torry Holt is out indefinitely after his own knee injury. Rookie pivot Zac Robinson looked shaky in limited time, and Brian Hoyer should be able to hold onto the No.2 spot being Brady.
Michael Turner missed most of the second half of 2009 because of an ailing ankle, but he looked explosive, averaging 7.3 yards on four carries against the Chiefs. The Falcons need him to be at his best to take some pressure off of Matt Ryan, who was also hurt last year. Also, the Falcons need to keep Ryan healthy, because Atlanta fans aren’t going to want to see Chris Redman or John Parker Wilson leading the team for very long.
Betting Edge: Patriots
Defensive Matchups: Patriots Falcons Betting
The Patriots had a tough time keeping up with the Saints’ offense, allowing 305 yards, but to be fair, New Orleans’ offense is predicated on timing routes to keep you off-balance. Rookie linebacker Brandon Spikes led the way with eight tackles and was a generally disruptive force for the Patriots, and he could elbow his way into the starting lineup at some point this season alongside Jerod Mayo.
The Falcons forced three turnovers against the Chiefs, with Spencer Adkins racking up six tackles. Curtis Lofton was right behind him with five and still figures to be the starting middle linebacker in Atlanta, but Adkins is out to show that he can maybe work in one of the other two linebacking spots. However, it’ll be interesting to see how they do against a team with a far better offense than the Chiefs, and a matchup against New England will give NFL betting players a better idea of how Atlanta’s defense looks.
Betting Edge: Draw
Notable Injuries: Patriots Falcons Betting
Guard Logan Mankins (holdout) is no closer to coming to camp, while defensive lineman Ty Warren (hip) and Holt (knee) are out, but Welker (knee) may get some time in this game.
Cornerback Dunta Robinson (hamstring), receiver Michael Jenkins, tight end Colin Peek (knee), running back Jerious Norwood (hip) and safety William Moore (groin) are all out.
Betting Edge: Draw
Outlook and Pick: Patriots Falcons Betting
The Falcons should be favored at home according to NFL betting odds, and this is a huge year for them as they took a step backwards in 2009, which was supposed to be their year. Even though it’s only a preseason game, solid performances against teams like New England will give the team some confidence heading into the 2010 campaign, and we expect the Falcons to be a handful. The Patriots just want to avoid injuries, and they will have a bit of a letdown after the New Orleans game. Take Atlanta in your sports betting picks.
