Atlanta Falcons at Dallas Cowboys: Week 3 Prediction

Sep 20, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws a pass during the first half of their game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

One of the more underrated games of week 3 in the NFL is the Dallas Cowboys returning home to host the Atlanta Falcons. Both teams are banged up but are also 2-0 and fighting to retain command of their division leads. Who is able to survive and stay undefeated?

Injuries

Tevin Coleman doubtful with broken rib

Running the ball remains a top priority for Atlanta but they continue to struggle. A big reason why is simple injury problems. Their promising rookie, Tevin Coleman has looked like a starter when on the field but just can’t stay on it. Now he’s dealing with a broken rib that will likely keep him out this week.

Jason Witten nursing ankle and knee sprains

Of the star-studded trio the Cowboys feature on their offense, tight end Jason Witten is the last man standing, and even he is hobbled. The Pro Bowler is nursing banged up lower extremities, both his ankles and knee sprained. While expected to play, it’s fair to wonder if the 33-year old will be at 100% for this game.

Key Matchups

Julio Jones vs. Brandon Carr

As usual, wide receiver Julio Jones has been unstoppable for the Falcons thus far. He’s doubled the yardage of the next closest teammate and had defensive backs holding their heads either from migraines or total confusion. Brandon Carr will draw the unenviable assignment of covering him. If the veteran corner can’t at least slow him down, it will be a long day for that Cowboys defense.

Jason Garrett vs. Dan Quinn

Usually the matchups are relegated to just the players, but in this game it will be the head coaches at the forefront. Jason Garrett has to find a way to get his offense going with its two best players while Dan Quinn attempts to creatively harass a backup quarterback behind one of the best offensive lines in football. It will be quite a chess match between these two.

Fantasy

Sit: Cowboys running backs

Aside from the fact that Joseph Randle and Darren McFadden haven’t played well the past two weeks, it’s not helping now that they face the prospect of stacked defensive fronts that know the Cowboys will want to run given the injury-riddled state of their passing game. Add in the matchup against a big, strong Atlanta defensive front and it’s not a good fantasy recipe.

Start: Falcons defense

The possibilities are stacking up in favor of the Falcons defense. It’s an indoor game, similar to a home affair for them. Tony Romo and Dez Bryant are out. They know they can stop the run (9th best in NFL). Their only challenge will be finding a way to apply pressure on Brandon Weeden at quarterback. If they can do that, they should have a big day.

Prediction: Falcons win 28-17

This comes down to one person: Matt Ryan. The Atlanta Falcons now have a huge advantage at the quarterback position with Romo out. Ryan will be indoors and have his fast receivers on that field turf. Provided Julio Jones is healthy enough and his defense doesn’t lay down, the Pro Bowl quarterback should set the tone and force Dallas to play catch up.

Next: Washington Redskins at New York Giants: Week 3 Prediction

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