Cappers Buzz

Atlanta returns for their home opener after dropping back-to-back games on the road. Think this game is big for a couple of reasons. First, the Falcons need to get their fan base back behind them after the Mick Vick fiasco. Owner Arthur Blank was even getting bad press at the start of the investigation with protesters going after not only the team, but also his Home Depot’s. Putting a winning product on the field will definitely help to get the fans’ backing again. And winning franchises (not that Atlanta is) always have strong leadership at the top. So I’m sure Blank has made it clear to pull out all the stops here. Secondly, this is also a big game for new head coach Bobby Petrino. After establishing himself as one of the top offensive minds in college, he’s yet to get any production from the Falcons. Ten points over 2 games doesn’t equal 24 million (Petrino’s salary over 5 years), and Petrino better start putting points on the scoreboard real soon. Is there a better place to start than in the home opener?

There really are no excuses so far because Atlanta does have the weapons to score. They just aren’t. QB Joey Harrington has thrown the ball well completing 71.9% and 60% of his passes against Minnesota and Jacksonville. But the running game, once Atlanta’s strength and the league’s best, has been non-existent. Warrick Dunn has a total of 105 yards which has left the burden on Joey. And that’s not a good thing. Their defense has played very good though allowing just 2 touchdowns on the road. And that should continue vs. Carolina. These two see each other twice a year, but Atlanta holds the edge. The Falcons know what to expect on both sides of the ball where as the Panthers will face Petrino’s new schemes for the first time.

Carolina has a good defense and with them being off a blowout loss, it is a concern. But what’s on the line for Atlanta is big, and being desperate at 0-2, has us feeling they rise to the challenge. This should be a close game, and it wouldn’t surprise to see it decided by a FG either way. That’s enough to get a spread cover with the Falcons. Play Atlanta plus the points.

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