Time to head out west. The Atlanta Falcons fly out to California this week and will go up against Jack Del Rio and the Oakland Raiders. The Falcons could not pull out a win at home last week, as they suffered a 31-24 defeat at the hands of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Meanwhile, the Raiders went all in on a two-point conversion that won them the game against the New Orleans Saints 35-34. Now the Raiders get to go home and take on their second NFC South opponent in two weeks.
These two teams have a few things in common. First off, neither team is known for their defense, as both gave up over 30 points in week one. Sure both clubs have some talent on that side of the ball, but it is not their specialties. Secondly, both teams have high powered offenses with a star wide receiver. Therefore, that 49 is looking pretty good for an over.
The Falcons are led by Matt Ryan and Julio Jones. Jones tweaked his ankle in week one, but should be fine for this week. He will be needed as Ryan is likely going to have to go score for score with the Raiders if the Falcons wish to remain in this game. Their rushing game amounted to virtually nothing last week, as their top two rushers combined for less than 50 yards. I would expect more of the same this week, as Ryan will likely be throwing the majority of the game.
On the other side, Derek Carr and Amari Cooper are set to match Ryan and Julio. Throw in Michael Crabtree, who caught the big two-point conversion, and the Raiders are ready for another slug-fest. But this time they will be at home, and the crowd will be behind them as opposed to their opponents. That two point conversion may very well set the tone for the Raiders season, and I expect them to come out firing this week. Even while laying five points, the Raiders are too talented for me to pass them up here.
Line: Oak -5, O/U: 49
Pick: Raiders and the over
Result: Atl 35 – Oak 28, Falcons and the over
To see the spreads and over/under for each week two match-up, make sure you head over to our master sheet right here!