Falcons

Rams

Last year’s world champions play host to the Atlanta Falcons in a Week 2 matchup that hasn’t failed to provide big scoring offense in recent encounters. With the Rams looking to continue where they left off last season, the Falcons will need to see off-season shifts gel quickly to withstand the defensive powerhouse that is the Rams’ defense.

The Falcons will look to start this season stronger than last after losing 3 of their first 4 games in 2021. They will need to do so with a new look offense after the loss of long-time servant Matt Ryan to the Indianapolis Colts. Ryan is replaced by veteran scrambler Marcus Mariota and new draft prospect Desmond Ridder, who will look to the speed and strength of running back Cordarrelle Patterson and second-year tight end Kyle Pitts for yards, should they remain fit.

Falcons vs Rams has seen 7 of the last 10 faceoffs won by this week’s visitors, although with no meetings since 2019, NFL betting odds are likely to fall heavily in favor of the home team this year. The Rams have seen off-season losses in the shape of Von Miller, Robert Woods, and “Walter Payton Man of the Year” winner Andrew Whitworth, but were able to extend the contract of former Detroit Lions Matt Stafford.

Those seeking to bet on NFL games might look to the familiar combination of Stafford and Cooper Kupp to cover the spread this week, or opt to bank on a defense that lodged an average of 2.94 sacks per game through the 2021/2022 season. For the Falcons to come away with anything, their offensive line will have to withstand the immediate threat of the Rams’ pass rush, but will they be up to the task?

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