3 Reasons to believe the Falcons will upset the Saints in week one

The Atlanta Falcons will be decided underdogs when week one kicks off on September 11th against the New Orleans Saints. Despite losing Sean Payton and Drew Brees in consecutive seasons expectations remain high for the Saints. With a solid roster and a veteran quarterback, the team gives reason to believe this team can contend for a wildcard spot.

For Atlanta on the other hand this season is all about eating a huge dead cap hit and trying to build on last season’s momentum. While they aren’t expected to be anything close to a playoff team this Atlanta team is going to surprise a lot of people.

Contrary to what some pundits might tell you this team is far from the worst roster in the league. It is a group that is going to fight hard every week for their coach and play above their talent level. The roster was improved at every position except for the quarterback spot.

While Mariota is an inarguable downgrade from Matt Ryan he will allow the team to run Arthur Smith’s offense at a higher level and be able to escape pressure and make plays that Ryan can’t. Mariota is arguably a better fit for this offense and this team at this point in their respective careers. Ryan is undoubtedly an all-time great Falcon and not in the same conversation as Mariota in all-time rankings, however, Mariota just might be the better quarterback to run this offense. Leaving the team plenty of reasons to believe they can pull off upsets this season including in week one against the Saints.