Saints at Falcons

This week the Saints put their 12-0 record on the line could get the franchise record for wins in the regular season as they take on the Atlanta Falcons.

Last week New Orleans basically pulled off a miracle in coming away with a victory over the Redskins. They needed a little luck along the way, but ultimately in this league, you make your own luck and this team is very good, so the lucky breaks keep coming their way.

Speaking of lucky breaks, the Saints appear to be catching the Falcons at a good time. Both Matt Ryan and Michael Turner are questionable and will be game-time decisions. One or both may try to give it a go and play, since the Falcons are hanging by a thread in the NFC playoff race. At any rate, you have to really like the Saints chances to go 13-0.

I think the Saints would like to make a statement and show that their close call against the Redskins was more of a fluke. If they pick up a convincing victory on the road to their biggest rival, it should keep them going heading into a bigger contest next Saturday night on national television against the Cowboys.

The Saints secondary is still banged up, but if Chris Redman is behind center for the dirty birds, I don't see the Falcons being able to take advantage. If Michael Turner is able to go, he could cause headaches for the Saints' front seven, as he went over 100 yards the last time these teams played. Despite Turner's efforts though, the Saints were able to take the Falcons out 35-27. I don't see this week's game being as competitive.

The Saints offense is on fire right now and since the week 5 bye, their lowest scoring game has been 28 points against the Rams. Robert Meachem has been on a tear, and I see Jeremy Shockey getting more involved this week. The team should also try to get the running game back on track after stumbling in that area against Washington.

Prediction:
Saints 33
Falcons 13