Atlanta Falcons Betting Odds

Team Overview

The Atlanta Falcons are entering the 2024/2025 NFL season with a renewed sense of optimism and ambition. After a 7-10 finish last year, the Falcons have made significant changes to their roster and coaching staff, aiming to break their playoff drought, which dates back to 2017. With the acquisition of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins and a new offensive scheme under play-caller Zac Robinson, the Falcons are poised to compete for the NFC South title. The team is banking on a mix of experienced players and emerging talents to lead them to success in what is considered one of the league’s more open divisions.

Offensive Line Analysis

The Falcons’ offensive line is one of the team’s key strengths, ranked sixth in the NFL by Pro Football Network. This unit is anchored by right guard Chris Lindstrom, who is recognized as one of the top players at his position. The line also includes reliable veterans such as left tackle Jake Matthews and right tackle Kaleb McGary, providing stability and protection for Kirk Cousins. The addition of rookie left guard Matthew Bergeron adds youthful energy and depth to the line. This strong offensive front is crucial for both pass protection and creating running lanes for star running back Bijan Robinson, who is expected to be a focal point of the Falcons’ offense.

Defensive Line Analysis

The Falcons have focused on strengthening their defensive line, which has been a point of emphasis in their offseason strategy. The addition of veteran pass rusher Matthew Judon and safety Justin Simmons bolsters a defense that struggled in previous seasons. The line is led by Grady Jarrett, a consistent force in the interior, and is complemented by young talents like edge rusher Bralen Trice, who was drafted to enhance the team’s pass rush capabilities. Despite losing Calais Campbell, the Falcons have made strategic moves to improve their defensive front, which will be crucial in a division with dynamic offenses.

Week 2 – vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Final Score: Atlanta Falcons 22, 21 Philadelphia Eagles

• Key Players:
  • Kirk Cousins executed a perfect final drive for the Atlanta Falcons, culminating in a seven-yard touchdown pass to Drake London with just 34 seconds left on the clock
  • Jessie Bates III intercepted Jalen Hurts’ final pass, sealing the victory for Atlanta and sparking a wild celebration on the sidelines.
• Game Dynamics:
  • Younghoe Koo put the Falcons ahead with a 48-yard extra point following an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on London. The decisive drive took only 65 seconds to complete.
• Game Statistics:
  • Cousins delivered an impressive performance, completing 20 of 29 passes for 241 yards and throwing two touchdowns.
• Challenges:
  • The Falcons managed only one touchdown in the first three quarters.
  • Cousins received strong criticism from fans and experts throughout the week leading up to the game
• Context:
  • This win has tied up the series for the Falcons (1-1)
• Reactions:
  • A celebration erupted on the sidelines after Bates sealed the last minute win.

Week 1 – vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

• Final Score: Pittsburgh Steelers 18, Atlanta Falcons 10.
• Key Players:
  • Justin Fields, filling in for the injured Russell Wilson, led the Steelers with 156 passing yards and 57 rushing yards.
  • Chris Boswell was instrumental for the Steelers, scoring six field goals, including three from beyond 50 yards.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Steelers maintained possession for over 10 minutes longer than the Falcons, controlling the game’s tempo.
  • The Falcons struggled offensively, particularly in the second half, gaining only one first down in three possessions.
• Game Statistics:
  • Cousins completed 16 of 26 passes for 155 yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions. He was also sacked twice.
• Challenges:
  • Cousins appeared slow in the pocket and indecisive under pressure, especially in the second half where he managed only 19 passing yards.
  • His performance was hampered by turnovers, including a crucial interception late in the game that thwarted a comeback attempt.
• Context:
  • This was Cousins’ first game back after a significant injury (torn Achilles) last season, which might have contributed to his rusty performance.
• Reactions:
  • Cousins expressed disappointment with his debut, acknowledging the need for improvement.
  • Falcons head coach Raheem Morris emphasized the importance of Cousins playing better and expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back.

Odds to Win Division and Super Bowl

– Odds to Win NFC South: -145, making them the favorites to win the division.

– Odds to Win Super Bowl: +3000, indicating a 3.2% chance, positioning them as a potential dark horse contender.

Predictions

– Overall Record: The Falcons are projected to finish with a 10-7 record, reflecting their potential to capitalize on a favorable schedule and improved roster.

– Playoff Chances: With odds of -185 to make the playoffs, the Falcons have a strong chance of securing a postseason berth, contingent on consistent performances from key players.

– Super Bowl Chances: While not among the top favorites, the Falcons’ odds suggest they have the potential to make a playoff run, especially if their new acquisitions perform well.

In summary, the Atlanta Falcons are entering the 2024/2025 season with high expectations and a revamped roster. With Kirk Cousins leading the offense and a fortified defense, the team is well-positioned to compete in the NFC South. The success of the Falcons will largely depend on the integration of new players and the effectiveness of their offensive and defensive lines. As they aim to return to the playoffs, the Falcons are poised to be a formidable force in the NFL.