Atlanta Falcons (7-9) vs. New Orleans Saints (8-8)
Atlanta Falcons vs. New Orleans Saints January 7, 2024 – The Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints, with their respective records of 7-9 and 8-8, are set for a crucial NFL Week 18 showdown. This game, taking place on Sunday at the Caesars Superdome, holds significant implications for both teams’ postseason aspirations. As the regular season reaches its crescendo, fans and bettors are on the lookout for Super Bowl winning free picks, making this matchup particularly intriguing.
Atlanta Falcons vs. New Orleans Saints January 7, 2024 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Caesars Superdome |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Desmond Ridder QB vs. Derek Carr QB
Desmond Ridder has faced the typical growing pains of a rookie quarterback in his first NFL season. Playing behind a porous offensive line, he’s dealt with constant pressure and faced difficult throwing windows. However, Ridder has shown resilience and mobility, using his legs to escape trouble and make plays. While still developing his ability to scan the field and manipulate safeties, he has the arm strength to make any throw. Ridder must improve his accuracy, especially on deep balls, and his decision-making under duress. With experience, he has all the tools of a future franchise QB.
Derek Carr has struggled with inadequate time to throw and a lack of playmakers. Forced to anchor a quick-pass attack, Carr has not consistently shown the aggressiveness that defined his time in Oakland. Holding onto the ball trying to make big plays has led to drive-killing sacks. Carr’s accuracy and touch are still there but he needs to adapt his deep shot mentality to this offense. More reliable pass pro, a stronger running game, and another target opposite Olave could help Carr rediscover his downfield magic.
Falcons’ Ground and Aerial Assault
Bijan Robinson has led Atlanta’s rushing attack with 948 yards and four touchdowns over 16 games, averaging an incredible 4.7 average yards per rush attempt while creating crucial plays that contribute greatly to Atlanta’s offense. Drake London has quickly emerged as an effective receiver. With 65 receptions for 864 yards and two touchdowns to his credit, London boasts 13.3 yards per reception to demonstrate his ability to make gains after catch.
Saints’ Offensive Strategy: Rushing and Receiving
Jamaal Williams has led the Saints rushing attack, which has been less prolific. Williams has amassed only 280 yards in 12 games, signaling an approach focused on efficiency over explosiveness. Chris Olave has been an integral component of New Orleans Saints passing game since joining as a receiver last season, amassing 84 receptions for 1,067 yards and 4 touchdowns in that span. Olave’s ability to gain yards after the catch has proven invaluable for New Orleans.
NFL Betting Odds: New Orleans Saints -173, Over/Under: 42.5
The Saints are favored with a moneyline of -173, and the over/under set at 42.5 suggests a moderately scoring game. These odds reflect the Saints’ slight edge, likely due to their balanced offense and home-field advantage.
Atlanta Falcons Betting Trends
Atlanta are 4-11 ATS in their last 15 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta’s last 6 games.
Atlanta are 3-6 SU in their last 9 games.
Falcons are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games against New Orleans.
Atlanta are 3-9 SU in their last 12 games against New Orleans.
Atlanta are 2-12 SU in their last 14 games on the road.
New Orleans Saints Betting Trends
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of New Orleans’ last 20 games.
Total has gone UNDER in 7 of New Orleans’ last 10 games against Atlanta.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of New Orleans’ last 9 games at home.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New Orleans’ last 6 games when playing at home against Atlanta.
New Orleans are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games against an opponent in the National Football Conference conference.
New Orleans are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games played in January.
Atlanta Falcons vs. New Orleans Saints Betting Picks
Analyzing both teams’ performances and trends, the Saints appear to have a slight advantage, especially with their efficient passing game and strong defensive record at home. The Falcons, despite their recent ATS record against New Orleans, face a tough challenge at the Superdome.
For bettors looking at sportsbook online, the Saints seem to be the safer pick, especially with the game being played at their home turf. The over/under is a tight call, but given both teams’ tendency towards lower-scoring games, the UNDER might be a prudent choice. The scoreline reflects the Saints’ home advantage and efficient offense, overcoming the Falcons in a contest that’s expected to be closely fought but leaning towards the home team.
Receiving Yards Prop: Saints 24, Falcons 17.
