By: T. Love
When the Atlanta Falcons head to Nashville this weekend to tangle with the Tennessee Titans, it will mark the beginning of the second quarter of the season. Atlanta finished 1-3 in the first quarter and could have easily been 2-2 if not for a “tatted up” kicker and a worthless GM who thinks he can get money back after writing a ridiculous contract. Nonetheless, an Atlanta victory would put them back in the division race.
The New Orleans Saints (0-3) have been absolutely atrocious this season, but the ‘Aints will be taking on the Carolina Panthers (2-2) in a division contest. David Carr is probably getting the start. Tough break Panther fans.
Carolina is currently in second place in the NFC South and a New Orleans win could place Atlanta in a two-way tie for second. That of course is coupled with a win for the Falcons.
Tampa Bay (3-1) may have their hands full this weekend when they travel to Indianapolis to take on the defending Super Bowl champion and undefeated Colts. The Buccaneers will be without the services of “Cadillac” Williams and Luke Petigout, who both suffered season-ending injuries. There has been a resurgence of defense at Raymond James Stadium this season and Chucky has his guys ranked fifth overall, allowing just 291.8 yards/game. Indy still has Peyton Manning, but they are quite banged up as well. The Colts are third in total offense averaging 403.5 yards/game. Something has got to give in this one. Hope the Colts keep the ’72 Dolphins sweating.
As for our Atlanta Falcons, a victory and losses by Carolina and Tampa would be huge. After digging themselves into a hole by going 0-3 to start the season, the team needs to start stringing together wins so the scoreboard watching can end.
Bobby Petrino showed the Falcons nation of what he is capable of a coach last week. The team needs to build on that success of beating on the weak and overrated Texans and pick up a win versus the Titans to get closer to the driver’s seat in the division race.