If my dad were still with us, I am sure we would have a friendly wager on this one! Being a native Texan, Ollie was a die-hard Cowboys fan. I think it was always sort of looked the other way at me being a Falcons fan. While I am proud to be a native Texan, and have really grown to appreciate that fact now that my dad is no longer around, growing up in Georgia made me a die-hard Falcons fan. So the lot is cast …
I really do not get how the Cowboys are favored in this one by 4 points. So far Dallas has beaten Tampa Bay, Carolina, and Kansas City, while losing to the N.Y. Giants, and Denver. I understand the home field advantage thing, but when Atlanta pulls this one out; please do not call it an upset.
The key to this one will be the Falcons ability to run the football. So far this year Turner has not looked very solid, and has gotten a case of the fumbles. Norwood is out, which means no true change of pace back, however Jason Snelling has played well this year and continues to pick up more playing time. Expect Snelling to see considerable time at FB and HB, especially if Turner struggles early and if regular FB Ovie Mughelli cannot make a go of it today.
Ryan thrives on play action passes and the hurry up offense. If Dallas removes the threat of a rushing attack, then it will be a long afternoon. I do not think that will happen, and while injuries are starting to deplete the surprising defense, I think they can hold Romo and company in check.
I can see this one being 24-17 Atlanta. Go Falcons!
