Atlanta Falcons Week 9 picks: Predicting each NFC South game

Nov 1, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) passes the ball downfield against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Buccaneers defeated the Falcons 23-20 in over time. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Eric Robinson

Atlanta Falcons (6-2) at San Francisco 49ers (2-6)

Another opponent that Atlanta should handle for four quarters. One thing for sure, the Niners are turning to Blaine Gabbert to help provide some type of spark. Whether he does or not remains to be seen, but it does Gabbert no good that Atlanta is third in the league in rushing defense.

SF is dead last in points scored and total offense and now have to work in a backup signal caller. Discipline is key here for Atlanta with 12 turnovers by the offense the last four weeks. If those are cleaned up, Atlanta will pick up a relatively comfortable win.

Pick: Atlanta 34, San Francisco 20

Green Bay Packers (6-1) at Carolina Panthers (7-0)

This game pretty much comes down to Carolina’s defense, a unit that is tenth in overall and scoring defense. Expect Carolina to lean on their first ranked running game to cut into Rodgers’ possessions. If we get the Super Bowl winning Rodgers, things may get pretty interesting in Charlotte.

Pick: Green Bay 27, Carolina 17

Tennessee Titans (1-6) at New Orleans Saints (4-4)

The Titans are No. 31 in the league in offense and scoring. Titans defense is No. 21 in creating turnovers and that’s the only way I see Tennessee coming even remotely close to defeating the Saints. No Brees turnovers equals a long day for the Titans.

Pick: New Orleans 35, Tennessee 21

New York Giants (4-4) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-4)

If the Giants can generate somewhat of a pass rush and get a few turnovers, a Giants victory is definitely a possibility. A toss up matchup that will come down to a couple of key factors.

Pick: New York 28, Tampa Bay 24

Last week: 1-2
Season: 15-10