Simulation Picks
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Expert Picks
The Colts have been playing just fine behind Jacoby Brissett, but it's clear the offense lacks the punch that Andrew Luck brought to the table. The Falcons, meanwhile, found themselves in Week 2 after getting dominated on the road to start the season. Atlanta is a better home team -- which is true for most of the league -- but it's not like it's playing outdoors in Indy. The Falcons should continue their electric offensive output and have the better weapons -- by far -- in this game. Injury absences for the Colts won't help them any. Expect a close one, but ultimately a Falcons win.
Matt Ryan has thrown five interceptions so far, a rate that won't continue. The Colts are severely banged up, with Marlon Mack and Ty Hilton questionable and Darius Leonard (concussion) out. Back Atlanta to excel inside the dome.
The Falcons come into this game as the healthier team, with the Colts banged up in particular on defense. I like the matchup of Matt Ryan vs. Jacoby Brissett considering that we're on the side getting points. The Falcons defense ranks top eight in net yards allowed per pass attempt and yards allowed per rush attempt, so that defense has played well through two weeks despite tough matchups. The Falcons' receiving weapons should win out in this battle, and I like the Falcons in an indoor game when they go on the road.
Atlanta's offense always performs better indoors, and if not for three turnovers last week, it would have put a lot more points on the board. The Colts offense has been a bit conservative in the first two weeks, but that's been because they've been on the road. At home, in the third game with Jacoby Brissett, I expect Frank Reich to open things up, and we're going to have a shootout on our hands here.