Atlanta Falcons: What to watch for in the regular season rehearsal

1. How will the starters look in extended playing time

Through two preseason games, the first team offense and defense has looked as good as one unit can look in limited action. The offense put together two touchdown drives in as many series, while the defense forced more three and outs than not.

Quinn has kept his strategy for Saturday tight to the vest, but it is fair to expect the starters to play at least one half of football in this contest. Having said that, keep an eye on who receives a majority of the snaps at the various open positions.

For example, will we see LaRoy Reynolds get the start at weakside linebacker for the third consecutive preseason game? Or does Duke Riley step in there while De’Vondre Campbell mans the strong side for the majority of his snaps?

Another worthwhile position battle to monitor is the one at nickel defensive tackle. Dontari Poe and Grady Jarrett remained on the field for all three downs of their two series in Pittsburgh.

Is Dan Quinn shortening his rotation this year to get the best two-way group out there at all times? Saturday’s game versus the Cardinals should provide some clarity on that.