The Atlanta Falcons were a Sportsbook page headline maker after their thrilling 27-24 overtime win at New Orleans against the Super Bowl champion Saints.
Real Deal
After a listless opening day loss at Pittsburgh against a Steelers team down to 3rd string quarterback Dennis Dixon the Falcons responded with two consecutive wins. The victory at Atlanta was a statement maker in many ways as it legitimizes the Falcons status as the top challenger to the Saints in the NFC South and as a leading contender to win the NFC.
Work-Smith
The Falcons success can be explained in large part due to head coach Mike Smith, who has led Atlanta to back to back winning seasons for the first time in franchise history in his first two years on the job. Owner Arthur Blank has changed the franchise culture and what was once one of the least respected offshore sportsbook commodities is quickly becoming one of the most respected.
Opportunists
The Falcons had their share of breaks at New Orleans with the biggest being a blown 29 yard field goal by New Orleans kicker Garrett Hartley that would have won the game in overtime. The Falcons took advantage of the break and got the money at Sbg global by driving down the field for a 46 yard game winning field goal by Matt Bryant. It is the sign of a true championship contender that they can come into a hostile environment and take advantage of breaks to win a key game.
No Fluke
Atlanta outgained the Saints 417-398 and had a 25-20 first down edge to ward off sportsbook page skeptics who write the win off as a pure luck based on a missed chip shot field goal. The Falcons forced 3 Saints turnovers and ran for 202 yards as Michael Turner had 114 yards and 1 touchdown while quarterback Matt Ryan passed for 228 yards and 2 scores while engineering the winning drive in overtime. Veteran tight end Tony Gonzalez has proven to be a key offshore sportsbook asset as he led the Falcons with 8 catches and 110 yards with 1 touchdown.
Almost Complete
The Falcons offense ranks 7th overall in the NFL but the defense ranks 21st although an impressive 7th for points allowed. If the 22nd ranked pass defense improves Atlanta will be a complete team.