Atlanta Falcons: Most important player in each of their first eight games

Week 7 – Carolina Panthers

Key Player: Foyesade Oluokun (LB)

When playing the Carolina Panthers there is one guy you put your focus on, Christian McCaffrey

He is perhaps the best all-around running back in the NFL, he can take a carry to the house, or line up in the slot and take a catch to the house.

This puts pressure on the Atlanta Falcons linebackers, particularly Foye Oluokun.

Oluokun played in multiple places on the defense last season, he was also asked to play one on one with some great players. This will need to be Foye’s game if the Falcons want to shut down the Panthers.

Foye will likely line up on the edge a good amount in the upcoming season, and stopping the outside run of McCaffrey will land on his shoulders. He will need to contain, and force Christian inside. On passing downs, he will need to match up with Christian and not allow any yards after the catch.

Foye is no doubt a big part of the Falcons defense, but going against the Panthers will only put him in the spotlight even more.

Week 8 – at New Orleans Saints

Key Player: Deion Jones (LB):

Nothing goes better than Deion Jones going back to his home state, and having a big performance.

Maybe he will not have a pick-six as often against the Saints now that Drew Brees is gone, but then again, he may be playing Jameis Winston and that may make it even easier.

Whether it is Winston or Hill starting for the Saints in week eight, Debo will need to step up and make New Orleans regret even more for passing on him in the draft.

If Taysom Hill is starting, Jones will need to focus on the read options and be able to make quick decisions on who to pursue, Hill or Kamara.

If Jameis Winston is starting, it will no doubt make the passing game a bigger threat. It may also give Debo a much better chance at making Winston do what he does best, turning the ball over.

Whatever the situation is, the Atlanta Falcons can trust Deion Jones, especially in New Orleans. They will need to win this game for the fans, as nothing feels better than beating the dreadful Saints in their hometown.