Why is everyone on the Atlanta band wagon? Arizona has looked terrible in their last few games but they have had nothing to play for. Atlanta on the other hand hasn't been too spectacular either in their last couple of games. Minnesota handed them the game by committing too many unforced errors. Even then, they had a chance to tie the game at the end. Atlanta was not able to put them away even with all the turnovers gifted to them. They were 14 point favorites at home to a terrible St Louis team and yet the Rams nearly won that game. I am sure the Rams did the Cards a big favor by giving them a great blueprint for how to beat Atlanta. If Atlanta's defense can give up so many points to the Rams, why wouldn't they be suspect to do the same to a superior Cards' pass offense? Also, Matt Ryan has thrown more interceptions than passes in the last few games. He seems to be in somewhat of a slump. I watched the game yesterday and frankly St Louis looked like the better team. This game could go either way depending on who gets the lucky bounces. Speaking of the running advantage the falcons have, they ran for a ton against the Rams too but the game was still close. I think Arizona's run defense is slightly better than the Rams not to mention that being at home helps their energy. Statistically they give up fewer yards at home
All in all, this isn't the slam dunk that everyone is making it to be. I think the over is an excellent bet. For the side, a bit of luck will come into play but I think Arizona has the slight edge as they are at home. Also, Warner is a SB MVP so this ain't his first rodeo. The Cardinals have an explosive offense that will light up Atlanta's weak pass defense. If they are able to jump out ahead with a few big plays, Atlanta will have to play catch up and will possibly be forced into a shoot out that dulls their significant advantage in the running game.
This is the playoffs. All the history we analyze to see which team has the edge is all for naught after one team makes a few big plays or a few costly errors. That could happen to either team but usually it happens more to the road team. Of course, everyone will be quick to point out the recent playoff success of road teams such as the Steelers and the Giants. It is interesting though that we site a few exceptions to prove that being at home is not an advantage.
All in all, this isn't the slam dunk that everyone is making it to be. I think the over is an excellent bet. For the side, a bit of luck will come into play but I think Arizona has the slight edge as they are at home. Also, Warner is a SB MVP so this ain't his first rodeo. The Cardinals have an explosive offense that will light up Atlanta's weak pass defense. If they are able to jump out ahead with a few big plays, Atlanta will have to play catch up and will possibly be forced into a shoot out that dulls their significant advantage in the running game.
This is the playoffs. All the history we analyze to see which team has the edge is all for naught after one team makes a few big plays or a few costly errors. That could happen to either team but usually it happens more to the road team. Of course, everyone will be quick to point out the recent playoff success of road teams such as the Steelers and the Giants. It is interesting though that we site a few exceptions to prove that being at home is not an advantage.