NFL Predictions: Week 3 Picks and Hot Takes

Sep 19, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) drops back to pass against the Chicago Bears during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) drops back to pass against the Chicago Bears during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
17 of 17
Next

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints, 8:30 p.m. ET on Monday, ESPN

Here’s a star-studded primetime game that provides a heck of a matchup. Not to mention that this one is pure fantasy football gold.

On the Atlanta side, you can feel a sliver of momentum building after knocking off a Oakland team that still has very real postseason chances. The Falcons weren’t perfect, but boy, did that offense shine. Devonta Freeman was efficient, Matty Ice threw for 396 yards, Julio Jones did Julio Jones things and the offensive line did their job when it counted the most. What we saw was a ceiling being reached. And oddly enough, this week’s outing could end up surpassing that performance entirely.

The depleted New Orleans secondary should allow the Atlanta game plan to spread out and do their thing. However, don’t discount the Saints and their ability to carve out a nice slice of yardage as well. Young QBs in Jameis Winston and Derek Carr have had their way against the Falcons secondary already this season. What’s stopping Drew Brees, Brandin Cooks, Willie Snead and the rest of the gang in New Orleans from doing the same?

Get ready for points aplenty here. If either secondary surprises and performs well, they’ll likely be taking home the ‘W’.

Saints get Monday night win at home against Falcons, win 35-28.