Fantasy Scouting Report: Atlanta Falcons

The Falcoholic fills us in on the team from the Dirty South.

QB Matt Ryan: A shaky young quarterback against the league’s best pass defense? Awfully hard to recommend Matt Ryan this week, even if I do think he’s due for a rebound game very soon. If you have safer options this week, let Ryan ride the pine for this one.

RB Michael Turner: The Carolina Panthers will be without linebacker Thomas Davis this weekend, which is one more excellent reason to start Turner. Although he wasn’t a total fantasy bust because of the touchdowns, Turner didn’t really get going until two weeks ago, but the Burner is one of the hottest backs in fantasy right now. He should have a lot of success against the Panthers and is a highly recommended fantasy play.

WR Roddy White: The problem with starting White or TE Tony Gonzalez this week is that their performance will be tied to Ryan’s, and he’s no sure bet. Either one could reel in the bulk of catches this weekend, but the smart money says this is one game where the Falcons will have better luck getting the ball to Gonzo. Start White, but not as your top option for the week.
TE Tony Gonzalez: See above.

Falcons Defense: An interesting play this week. If DeAngelo Williams is limited or can’t go against the Falcons, the team gets a collective boost on defense. Despite talk of Jake Delhomme’s resurgence, he should be good for a couple of crucial mistakes, which will be good for points for your team. There are definitely better options out there—say the Ravens’ D against the woeful Browns—but they’re not a bad dice roll for the week.

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