Hoping to extend their undefeated record, the Atlanta Falcons (3-0) travel to take on the Houston Texans (1-2). The NFL’s leading passer, Matt Ryan (946 yards, 5 TDs), and second-leading receiver, Julio Jones (440 yards, 4 TDs), will play an integral role in the outcome of this game. Kickoff is at 1:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, Oct 4 and will air on CBS.
In last week’s game, Atlanta got a win over Dallas 39-28. Devonta Freeman had a great game in the victory, putting up 193 total yards and three scores. He had 141 yards on the ground and 52 yards receiving. Julio Jones also had a great game with 164 yards and two TDs on 12 catches. Houston also won last week, defeating Tampa Bay 19-9. Alfred Blue had a huge game running the ball for the Texans, dashing 31 times for 139 yards and one TD. DeAndre Hopkins had a great game as well, adding 101 yards and a TD on eight catches.
The Texans are a five-point underdog against the Falcons and the Over/Under (O/U) for the matchup is sitting at 46 points.
The Falcons have performed above expectations so far this year. Their 3-0 records Straight Up (SU) and Against The Spread (ATS) are a noteworthy start. The Falcons hope to continue the trend of torching Houston’s defense during the second quarter, when they allow 10.7 points per game. With the fourth-highest time of possession per game at 34:45, expect Atlanta to control the clock this week.
Shifting to the opposition, the Texans head into Week 4 with records of 1-2 for both ATS and SU. Houston’s game plan is pass-heavy. The Texans average 48 attempts per game, most in the NFL. Shifting to the other side of the ball, it might be tough for the Falcons to keep up with Houston’s defense in a few areas. Houston, allowing 53.8% of passes to be completed, has a good chance of shutting down its competitor’s passing offense.
Predictions: SU Winner – Atl, ATS Winner – Atl, O/U – Under
Notes
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta’s last 6 games.
Atlanta is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta’s last 7 games at home.
Atlanta is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home.
Both teams are 1-0 SU when leading after three quarters.
The Atlanta offensive ground attack is ranked 15th in the league, while the Houston rush defense is only ranked 19th. The Texans’ rushing game is ranked 13th, compared to the 15th-ranked run defense of the Falcons.
