I saw the public move this game all the way up to 10 points and I could not pass up the opportunity as there are just too many motivational factors here going against the Saints. This line is incredibly large, but has to be when you look at how the Falcons have failed to cover the spread and haven't even come close in some games. IF there ever was going to be a time where this team dug deep it's now. They get the Saints on a short week at home and despite what many people say these NFL players play each game and they don't lay down for anyone. There are a few reasons why I think we have tremendous value on this line.
First being this is a divisional game and being a road favorite by double digits is just kind of crazy. It's not like the Saints have been great on the road. They lost to the Jets after all and only put 16 points up on the Bucs. The Falcons still have a capable offense at home and Matt Ryan is still capable of coming up with a great game. Secondly the Saints just came off an emotional physical game against the 49ers in which they won in over time. That took a lot of mental and physical toughness that seems to get lost in the next game against a bad opponent like the Saints. Add in the fact that the Saints have the NFC game of the year the following week and this just spells trouble. I would not be shocked to see the Falcons have the Saints on the ropes towards the 4th quarter. I would normally make this situation and this spot a 5.5* max play, but because the Falcons have been so bad of late it's hard to take that kind of rest. I do believe they will dig deep against one of their most hatred rivals and give their home fans something to cheer about.
