2011 NFL Team Preview
Atlanta Falcons
2010 Record: 13-3
2010 Record ATS (Against the Spread): 11-5
Outlook:
Now we're talking. This is a good solid team all the way around the ball. Last year this is one of the only teams to be both strong as an individual contender as well as a strong bet every week to cover the spread. This is a balanced offense with Michael Turner carrying the bulk of the load. Last season he led the NFL in attempts (334) while adding 1,371 yards and 12 TD's to his resume'. Matt Ryan is good. This is no secret either. Ryan poured in 3,705 yards passing as well as 28 touchdowns and only nine (9) interceptions. WR Roddy White is also a power. He led the NFL with 115 receptions while gaining 1,389 yards and 10 touchdowns. The way this team is built reminds you of "The Triplets" of the Dallas Cowboys heyday.
Strengths: We mentioned passing, rushing, and receiving in the outlook section. But the defense is also strong. The defense was the tenth best in the NFL in allowed rushing yards and allowed only nine (9) rushing touchdowns. There are many other key play makers on the team waiting for a chance to impress. The ownership and coaching staff get along well and both are committed to winning. This is a good time to be a Falcons fan if you happen to be one.
Weaknesses: The secondary is a little weak. The last game they played they lost to the eventual champion Green Bay Packers because of the 366 yards and three Td's the secondary gave up. You can bet with all the other pieces in place the secondary has been the major area of concern in the offseason.
Betting Prognosis: With firepower like that of the Atlanta Falcons, bettors love to ride them. This team can really wear out opponents and put an extra touchdown on the board for good measure. Last year the Falcons were 13-3 SU and we can see that improving to 14-2 or 15-1 if all goes well. The spreads may be over-inflated because the public loves to ride a winner. I still think there is value to be had in some Matchups and if you pick and choose you can make some good money with this team. They should finish above ,500 against the spread.
Key Matchups:
Week 1 at Chicago - Atlanta is minus three (-3) and this is a huge opening game for them. The public has been hammering Atlanta all summer and makes me want to stay away as a bettor or even take Chicago. This could go either way ATS.
Week 2 vs. Philly - Philly is the rival team of the 2000's for Atlanta. And many have picked Philly to go all the way. We can imagine at this point Atlanta will be a 2-3 point favorite. Again this one can go either way and not a whole lot of value in betting this one. But this will help create a power ranking for later games.
Wee 3 at Tampa - Tampa is much improved, at home, and playing on grass. These are all things that are in Tampa's favor. But we cannot bet against the likes of Matty Ice and company. A good one to watch. I am not betting it.
