Watch These Players: Falcons vs. Saints – A Showdown of Divisional Rivals
The NFC South rivalry between the Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints is always a heated affair. This Sunday's matchup promises to be no different, with both teams looking to make a statement early in the season. Here are some key players to keep your eye on as the Falcons and Saints go head-to-head:
Falcons Offense:
- QB Desmond Ridder: Entering his second season, Ridder will be looking to build on his promising finish to last year. He'll be tested against the Saints' experienced defense, and his ability to manage the game and make crucial throws will be crucial.
- RB Bijan Robinson: The rookie sensation from Texas is ready to make his NFL debut. With his powerful running style and impressive receiving ability, Robinson has the potential to be a game-changer for the Falcons. Look for him to be heavily involved in the offense, especially early on.
- WR Drake London: The young wide receiver showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie year, and he'll be looking to take another step forward in 2023. His size and athleticism make him a threat in the red zone, and he'll be a key target for Ridder throughout the game.
Saints Offense:
- QB Derek Carr: New Orleans is hoping Carr can bring stability and leadership to the quarterback position. The veteran signal caller will have his work cut out for him against a tough Falcons defense. How he performs under pressure will be a crucial factor in the Saints' offensive success.
- RB Alvin Kamara: One of the most dynamic playmakers in the league, Kamara is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. His agility and vision make him a nightmare for defenses, and the Falcons will need to find a way to contain him.
- WR Chris Olave: The young wideout had a breakout season in 2022, and he's poised for an even bigger year. Olave's speed and route-running ability make him a constant threat downfield, and he could be a major challenge for the Falcons' secondary.
Defensive Matchups to Watch:
- Falcons pass rush vs. Saints offensive line: The Falcons have a talented young defensive line led by Grady Jarrett and Arnold Ebiketie. They'll be looking to disrupt Carr and generate pressure. The Saints offensive line will need to be up to the task of protecting their new quarterback.
- Saints secondary vs. Falcons receivers: The Saints have a solid secondary with Marshon Lattimore and Tyrann Mathieu leading the way. They'll have their hands full trying to cover London and the rest of the Falcons' receivers.
This game is sure to be a hard-fought battle between two divisional rivals. With so many key players looking to make their mark, the excitement level will be high. Tune in and watch these players as they try to lead their teams to victory!