Hoping to extend their undefeated record, the Atlanta Falcons (4-0) travel to take on the Washington Redskins (2-2). The NFL’s leading receiver, Julio Jones (478 yards, 4 TDs), and second-leading passer, Matt Ryan (1,202 yards, 6 TDs), are the players to keep an eye on in this game. It will air Sunday, Oct 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET on FOX.
In last week’s game, Atlanta easily got past Houston 48-21. Devonta Freeman had a great game in the victory, putting up 149 total yards and three scores. He had 68 yards on the ground and 81 yards receiving. Leonard Hankerson also had a great game with 103 yards and a TD on six catches. Washington was also victorious last week, squeaking by Philadelphia 23-20. Kirk Cousins had a good performance through the air for the Redskins, connecting on 31 of 46 pass attempts for 290 yards and one TD.
A close score is not projected this week when the Redskins, a substantial eight-point underdog, take on Atlanta. The Over/Under (O/U) line is currently at 47 points for this matchup.
The Falcons have performed above expectations so far this year with a 4-0 record Straight Up (SU) and Against The Spread (ATS). The Falcons average 3.7 yards each time they throw, which ranks fifth in the NFL. Crossing over to the defensive side of the ball, the Falcons look to have a distinct advantage in certain spots. Securing the football will be a priority for the Redskins in this game. The Falcons have the fifth-most fumbles recovered per game in the league with one. The Falcons are one of the best in the league at scoring in the fourth quarter, averaging 10 points. On average, the Redskins are given 8.8 flags each game, one of the worst rates in the league. Similar errors could benefit the Falcons in this week’s game.
As for their opponent, the Redskins head into Week 5 with records of 2-2 for both ATS and SU. Running the ball has resulted in favorable outcomes for the Redskins, who average the third-best yards per carry in the league with 4.4. Moving on to the Washington defense, it has some favorable matchups that it may be able to take advantage of as well. The Redskins’ run defense could be in for a good game when it faces off against the Falcons, who rank 27th in terms of yards per rush (3.7).
Predictions: SU Winner – Was, ATS Winner – Was, O/U – Under
Notes
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta’s last 7 games.
Atlanta is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games.
Atlanta is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Washington.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Atlanta’s last 6 games when playing at home against Washington.
Washington is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Atlanta.
Washington is 2-1 SU this season, when leading at the half. Atlanta is 2-0 SU when taking a lead into halftime.
The Atlanta passing attack is ranked fifth in the league, while the Washington pass defense is only ranked ninth. The Redskins’ passing game is ranked 18th, compared to the 30th-ranked pass defense of the Falcons.
Washington has allowed 32.0 points per game on the road, which is ranked only 28th in the league. Atlanta has put up 37.0 points per contest at home (ranked second overall).
