If the NFL had a rivalry week like college football, the matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints would help highlight it. Traditionally, these two teams hate each other and have been known for some dramatic matchups in the past. This year things are a bit different for each team. The Falcons have managed to go 5-0 while the New Orleans Saints have just one win on the year. Now they go head-to-head for NFC South pride.
The Falcons are working to complete a turnaround from being one of the worst teams in the league over the past two years. With head coach Dan Quinn leading the charge, the Falcons are 5-0 despite trailing in the fourth quarterback in four of those games. Somehow the team continues to find ways to win on the field, a trend they would like to keep going as they head to New Orleans, a difficult place to get a win. Last week, the Falcons win was sealed with a 59-yard interception return for a touchdown in overtime by Robert Alford as the team would like to have a lead and hold it in Week 6.
The Falcons will be riding Devonta Freeman in this game as the running back comes in leading the league in touchdowns. The second-year pro has been overachieving since getting the starting job and making the Falcons thankful for their faith in him. Freeman will be critical as Julio Jones is hampered by a hamstring injury. The wide receiver is expected to be active in the game, but might not have much production depending on the defense. That will open the door for the run game along with players like Roddy White and Jacob Tamme to step up and help.
The Saints have to hope their offense is enough to overpower a surprisingly decent Atlanta Falcons defense. The Saints have lost Marques Colston for some time after the receiver suffered a shoulder injury. That puts pressure on Willie Snead and Brandin Cooks to help Drew Brees out. The quarterback will look to get the run game going early with Mark Ingram and CJ Spiller who could be the x-factor in this matchup.
Traditionally, the NFC South has gone through New Orleans, but this year could be different. One more loss and the Saints' season is on life support. The Falcons want to remain undefeated most importantly in NFC South play if they stand any chance of doing something good this year.
