This is a 10* BLOCKBUSTER on the Atlanta Falcons.

While we won't be so bold as to call for the outright, straight-up victory, we do think that the weight of an undefeated season, combined with what we believe to be a classic "look-ahead/letdown" spot, will be enough of a distraction for the home side to let the visitors slip in through the back door down the stretch. Carolina gutted out a victory over a struggling Saints team last week, but only by the skin of its teeth. Things couldn't be more dire in Atlanta, a fifth straight loss against Tampa Bay last weekend means that the team is now in a do-or-die scenario every weekend, another loss and it'll be the nail in the coffin for Atlanta. Desperation breeds motivation. After opening the season 5-0, the Falcons have imploded; but that said, we think that Matt Rayan and company have a big opportunity today, as note that New Orleans' offense looked unstoppable last week, after being held to just six points in a 24-6 setback at Houston the week before. And with two road games, before a date at home vs. Tampa Bay at the end of the season, it's not too big a stretch to picture the home side "looking past" the lowly Falcons in some small way to the final part of its schedule. Also note that Atlanta is 3-1 ATS as an underdog this season, while Carolina is just 1-2 ATS vs. division opponents this year. Grab as many points as you can with the FALCONS.

AAA Sports