Making a Falcons vs. Commanders prediction now is much more complicated than it would have been a month ago. Atlanta had won four of six games to surge to 4-4 following a 37-34 win over Carolina on Oct. 30. However, since then, the Falcons have lost two of three and are looking anemic on offense.
Washington looked like it was dead in a hotly-contested division race after starting 1-4. However, riding the momentum of backup quarterback Tayor Heinicke has seen the Commanders reel off five wins in their last six games to move into the Wild Card hunt in the NFC. With Washington riding a wave of momentum, the Commanders have chosen to stick with Heinicke over Carson Wentz, who just came off the NFL injury report.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Washington Commanders
Matchup info
The NFL schedule shows the Falcons will travel to FedEx Field for a 1 p.m. meeting with the Commanders.
The Falcons need to find a spark on offense
Atlanta Falcons odds show they bounced back last week by beating Chicago 27-24. However, Atlanta’s numbers on offense were ugly despite grabbing a win. Quarterback Marcus Mariota passed for 131 yards and a touchdown, but the Falcons could only put up 280 yards of total offense.
Atlanta hasn’t always had an issue moving the ball. Anyone making a Falcons vs. Commanders Prediction will see that Atlanta is third in the league in rushing yards and 12th in points per game. However, the Falcon’s recent struggles seem to be coming as teams around the league have gotten a look at what they’ve done on film.
Defensively, Atlanta has been a mess. The Falcons allowed 24.9 points per game, which ranks 28th in the league. When it comes to total yards, the Falcons allow 389.4 yards per game, which is the third-worst in the league.
Key Injuries
- TE Kyle Pitts is Out, IR (Knee)
- TE Felipe Franks is questionable (calf)
- DT Ta’Quon Graham injury reserve (knee)
Betting Trends to know
- Atlanta is 7-4 against the spread.
- The Falcons have seen the total go over in six of their 11 games.
- Two of the last three Atlanta games have gone under the total.
- Atlanta is 1-4 straight up on the road this season.
Heinicke has been buying a lot of new sneakers
Of all the Commanders stats for 2022, take note of one of the most unique involves, Heinicke. When he starts a game and wins, Heinicke buys a new pair of sneakers and spray paints them the colors of the team he’s beaten. After reviving Washington’s charge up the NFL team standings, the Commanders are lining up to back Heinicke.
While Heinicke’s story is fun, people trying to make a Falcons vs. Commanders prediction will note Washington isn’t necessarily winning because of how he is playing. So far this season, Heinicke has passed for 1,031 yards with five touchdowns and four interceptions. What has made the Commanders so difficult to beat is their defense.
NFL player stats show that Washington ranks sixth in the league in total yards allowed, only giving up 308 yards per game. The Commanders are also sixth against the run, only allowing 103.1 yards per game. Washington has made a decent amount of splash plays, forcing 11 takeaways on defense.
Atlanta vs Washington Odds
When it comes to NFL matchups this week, you will find that Washington is a 4-point favorite. The Commanders are -200 on the money line, while the Falcons are +175. The over/under has been set at 41.5 points.
Atlanta vs Washington Betting Picks
When it comes to NFL team stats, it is easier to count on Washington’s defense performing consistently than Atlanta’s offense. The Falcons need to be able to utilize Mariota in both the passing and running game to be effective. It could be a disaster if Mariota has to pass to win the game. Washington is the bet on the money line.
This game is likely to go under the total, even with a lower number. Atlanta has struggled to move the ball in recent weeks, and the Commanders aren’t an offensive juggernaut either.
When it comes to NFL point spreads, it is tempting to take Atlanta because Washington doesn’t blow teams out. However, if the Falcons aren’t able to open up their offense, there is a chance Washington could win by a touchdown. The Commanders will cover the number narrowly.
Atlanta vs Washington Score Prediction
Washington 17, Atlanta 10
NFL Pick: Washington -4
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