Fansided
Fansided

2016 NFL Season: Picking The Week One Winners

By Erik Lambert

Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) has his pass knocked down by Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl 50 at Levi
Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) has his pass knocked down by Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl 50 at Levi /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 16
Next
Nov 1, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) eludes the pressure from Atlanta Falcons defensive end Adrian Clayborn (99) in the first quarter of their game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) eludes the pressure from Atlanta Falcons defensive end Adrian Clayborn (99) in the first quarter of their game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons

Divisional matchups are never boring in the NFL, and that’s especially true for the NFC South these days. The last time the Buccaneers and Falcons met in Atlanta, it was an absolute thriller that came down to the final seconds. Both teams have improved since then and are taking aim at the Panthers’ crown. To do that though they need to stockpile wins within the division itself, so this game is of enormous importance. Look for it to become a chess match between Matt Ryan and Jameis Winston for who makes the fewest mistakes.

Notable Injuries:

Julio Jones (ATL) – The Falcons have been very cautious regarding their superstar receiver since he injured his ankle in the third preseason game. Damage wasn’t severe according to reports but they aren’t taking chances. They need him at 100% and ankles can be a tricky problem, especially for a position that relies on quick cutting ability.

Daryl Smith (TB) – Tampa Bay has not been forthcoming with the ailment that has dogged veteran linebacker Daryl Smith since the end of August, only stating that he remains questionable. There have been no indications he’s in danger of missing week one but until his status changes, there will be lingering doubts.

Key Matchup:

Gerald McCoy vs. Alex Mack

One of the biggest reasons that the Falcons moved fast to sign veteran Pro Bowl center Alex Mack was so they could better handle the slew of interior pass rushers they have to face in the division. None are better than Gerald McCoy who gave them plenty of problems in 2015 and limited the effectiveness of both Matt Ryan and the Falcons running game. Mack needs to change that.

Prediction:  Falcons win 24-23

Next: MIN @ TEN

Home/NFL Hot Takes