Falcons vs. Redskins: Complete game preview

Oct 4, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn reacts with quarterback Matt Ryan (2) after a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the Texans 48-21. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Why to watch

Do you know how hard it is to start the season 5-0? Since the Atlanta Falcons were formed in 1966, they have only done it once, which was back in 2012. Dan Quinn and his team have a chance to write history, reaching 5-0 for only the second time in franchise history. That right there puts enough emphasis on victory.

But more importantly, a win puts the Falcons a game ahead of the 4-0 Panthers who are on bye week. Carolina plays Seattle and Green Bay in its next four games. Want to pull away in the NFC South? Keep winning, Atlanta.

But forget about the records, forget about the streaks. A win in this game puts the Falcons one step closer to the ultimate goal—playoffs. How many wins will it take this year, 10? 11? Whatever that number winds up being, a fifth win with 11 still to play would put Quinn’s team in an excellent position.

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