The Atlanta Falcons travel to Atlanta for a Week 6 showing against the Cardinals.
The Cardinals enter this game having just earned their first win of the season in a contest against the Bengals. Meanwhile, after three straight losses, the Falcons desperately need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Despite the prolific job of Kyler Murray, this game will be more focused on receiving. With Arizona’s record-breaking receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, set to face off against Julio Jones of the Falcons, this should be a game for the ages. The pair has combined for 2,056 receptions, 27,727 receiving yards and 173 touchdown catches and has a combined 100 games with 100-plus receiving yards.
Another significant playmaker who could play a big part for the Cardinals and provide some trouble for the Falcons defense is David Johnson. The Cardinals’ running back posted 156 yards in a scrimmage last week and could be a key factor for Arizona.
Also make sure to keep an eye out for Cardinals kicker Zane Gonzalez, as he is second in the NFL with 48 points. Gonzalez has made 14 of 17 field goals compared to the Falcons’ four of six.
How it could turn out
With home-field advantage, the Cardinals might be able to pull out another win. In their only three appearances to State Farm Stadium, the Falcons have yet to win a game. Last year, the Cardinals were able to pull out with a 40-14 win in Atlanta. Matt Ryan has struggled in his history facing the Cardinals, throwing for 11 interceptions and only 10 touchdowns.
Coming into the game, this seems evenly matched. With Arizona averaging 20 points per game and the Falcons 20.4 points, this seems to be evenly matched from a stats perspective.
Injuries
Cardinals:
Unlike in the past, Julio Jones will not have to face off against Patrick Peterson. The Cardinals’ cornerback is serving a six-game suspension for violating the league’s performance-enhancing drug policy. Though Peterson will return next week, he will be sorely missed in this matchup.
Robert Alford is also out with a broken leg. Andy Lee and Christian Kirk also didn’t practice. Meanwhile, Tramaine Brock suffered a shoulder injury but will most likely be ready for the game. David Johnson has dealt with injuries, but the team is very hopeful he will be healthy when Sunday comes.
Falcons:
Julio Jones missed Wednesday’s practice with a hip injury, but he will most likely play in the game. Cornerbacks Bidi Breh-Wilson (hip) and Desmond Trufant (toe) and punter Matt Wile (right quad) also did not practice Wednesday.
Game Info
Date: October 13, 2019
Time: 2:05 p.m. MST
Location: State Farm Stadium | Glendale, Arizona
TV: FOX
Prediction
I think that the Cardinals will be able to pull away with a 34-14 win. They have a deep history of winning against the Falcons, and the chances are increased as they play at home.
Kyler Murray will be able to throw for at least 200 yards and Larry Fitzgerald will dominate the game. With Jones returning from an injury, the Cardinals should be able to hold him back enough to secure a victory.
