How do Atlanta Falcons stack up against the NFC South rivals?

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New Orleans Saints

This rivalry is pure hatred for one another as the bout has lasted for over 20 years of absolute disdain for the other, and it appears as if more bouts are looming Week 6 and Week 17, surrounded by tough games for both teams.

But going into these games, what are the lines of separation that hope to stymie the other’s offense in this always-competitive clash?

Being led by All-Pro quarterbacks, there are few levels of separation between Drew Brees and Matt Ryan who will both more than certainly put up gaudy numbers apiece. But without Jimmy Graham, Brees has one less proven commodity to throw to, but Brees is still Brees and his legacy will continue.

I anticipate that this is going to be some of the best football in the division when these two square off twice. There is much to be gained in divisional positioning as both teams will be at the top of the division standings, and these matchups are crucial for the division title.

Go ahead and conclude that the home field advantage is going to be a factor that both teams, and could very well be a deciding point in this rivalry.

Saints strengths

• Receivers – There are receivers aplenty in New Orleans, and Brees has plenty of options to make the defense tremble. It doesn’t matter who is on the field, the scheme always has receivers causing heartache for defensive coordinators.
• Running attack – Surprisingly, the Saints have built a dynamic attack in the backfield, and it could very well control the clock of the games against the Falcons if they can’t stop the rush. Ingram and Spiller could be in store for big-time performances.

Saints weakness

• Secondary – The Saints know that they must stop Julio Jones and Roddy White, but adding more options to an already deadly attack for the Falcons may be too much for an unpolished secondary to handle.

Saints X-Factor

• C.J. Spiller – As mentioned before, he could be in line for huge days against the Falcons young defense. If this guy can get the ball in space, it is going for six points quickly as he has proven himself to be a home run threat every time he touches the ball.

Prediction: Series split 1-1

Next: Carolina Panthers