Saints vs. Falcons matchups to watch

Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

By Ross Jackson

As the New Orleans Saints prepared to host the Atlanta Falcons in the first meeting of the NFC South rivalry, the absence of two core pieces in the Atlanta offense has drastically shifted the landscape of the bout. Without starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and wide receiver Drake London, the Falcons’ rushing attack leads off the biggest matchups to watch in this game.

Falcons running back Bijan Robinson vs. Saints’ front

The task of limiting the Falcons’ offense is simultaneous with the task of limiting Robinson. His counterpart, Tyler Allgeier, is sure to pose a threatl, particularly in short-yardage situations. Robinson has already rushed for over 700 yards this season and has added an additional 506 as a receiver out of the backfield. Neutralizing his threat potential will come down to the defensive line remaining sound in run defense, the second-level linebackers winning at the point of attack and taking away cutback lanes. Linebackers Demario Davis and Pete Werner will also be tasked with covering Robinson in the passing game.

Saints wide receiver Chris Olave vs. Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell

Olave is coming off of his best game of the season, reeling in 104 receiving yards in the team’s Week 10 win against the Carolina Panthers. With the wealth of the passing game now falling on Olave’s shoulders, the matchup between he and Atlanta’s top cover corner will have a sizable bearing on the game.

Saints offensive tackles vs. Falcons pass rushers

Atlanta is currently second in the league in sacks with 34. The team also has 15 different players that have been in on those sacks. That means a lot of pressure is being sent from a variety of areas of the defense. That’s something that the Saints will have to counteract. With right tackle Taliese Fuaga questionable, it may be Asim Richards in his place with rookie Kelvin Banks Jr. on the left side looking to hold off rookie edge rushers Jalon Walker, James Pearce Jr. and the rest of the Falcons’ pursuit.