MNF: Falcons Perspective

Players To Watch:

WR Roddy White - White has really become a go to target for QB Matt Ryan when the game is on the line, he has showed that he can be clutch, and the 6'0" speedster has definitely put himself into the conversation of top receiver in the NFL. Much like WR Andre Johnson, White has gone about his business quietly but has still been ultra-productive notching a fourth year in a row with over 1,100+ yards receiving. Look for White to add to his NFL leading 106 receptions tonight.

DE John Abraham - Last year was the first time in Abraham's long career that he started more than 15 but was unable to get more than 10+ sacks (he had just 5.5). I thought that this was a sign that the 32 year old Abraham was simply getting old and would not be able to produce like we are used to seeing. This year, however, Abraham proved me wrong; he is back to his usual disruptive ways already registering 12 sacks. He has 4 sacks and 2 FF's in the last 4 games so watch for him to have a big game on MNF.

LB Curtis Lofton - A very underrated linebacker who has the job of roaming the middle of the field tonight. QB Drew Brees does a great job of passing in-between the numbers and exploiting matchups with linebackers. Lofton, who leads the Falcons with 107 tackles to go along with 3 forced fumbles 2 sacks and an interception, will have a tough test stopping the run and trying to slow down Brees.

Key Matchup - RB Michael Turner vs Saints front 7 - Even though QB Matt Ryan has really come on this year, Turner is the most important part of the Falcons offense. Turner is the Falcons work horse who just gets better as the game goes on. When the big 5'10" 244 lbs back has rushed for 50 yards or less this year the (12-2) Falcons are 2-2 with their wins only coming by a total of 8 points. The Saints defense allows 117 yards a game so look for Turner to have a big night.

Why the Falcons Will Win - The Falcons know how to get it done in front of a home crowd. The Falcons are undefeated this year at home, they seem to always have a flair for the dramatic and have the ability to win close games. I think that this game will come down to the very end and with the way the Falcons have been playing all year, I have no doubt they will be able to pull off another close victory.

Prediction: Falcons 34 Saints 31