The Atlanta Falcons were unable to make the playoffs last season, ending the year with a 7-9 record. It was a disappointing season, to say the least, but they are ready to bounce back in 2019. Now, the Falcons are ready to prove that they can still contend.
Last season, the Falcons dealt with major injury issues. Deion Jones and Keanu Neal went down with season-ending injuries and there were quite a few other players banged up throughout the year. With health and development from their young talent, the Falcons could be in contention once again.
Matt Ryan is set for another massive season under offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter. Koetter's return to the Falcons bodes well for the offense, especially superstar receiver Julio Jones. Devonta Freeman is also returning from a season full of injuries and will take over as the workhorse running back once again.
Looking ahead at the upcoming season, the Falcons are going to have their work cut out for them. There are quite a few games that will be tough tests for them, but they are ready to take them on.
All of that being said, let's dive in and take a look at the three most important games on the Falcons' schedule this season.
3. Week 1 at the Minnesota Vikings
In Week 1, the Falcons are going to get a major test right off the bat. They are going to hit the road to take on Kirk Cousins and the Vikings. While Minnesota did not end up playing up to their potential last season, they are still a very talented team.
Minnesota's offense has big-time potential with Cousins, Dalvin Cook, Stefon Diggs, and Adam Thielen. They have also had a solid defense for a few years, although they dropped off a bit last season. Atlanta needs to set the tone for their season with a big win to open everything up.
2. Week 3 at the Indianapolis Colts
Just a couple of weeks later, the Falcons are going to hit the road once again for a massive game against the Colts. Andrew Luck showed once again that he is an elite quarterback. Atlanta will have their hands full slowing him and the dynamic Indianapolis offense down.
Atlanta will also be facing a much-improved Colts' defense. Indianapolis added Justin Houston to rush the passer and they have Darius Leonard as a rising superstar as well. Matt Ryan and company will have their second opportunity in three weeks to prove that they belong in the playoff race.
1. Week 10 at the New Orleans Saints
Finally, the Falcons will have a battle with their division rival Saints in Week 10. Once again, they will head on the road for this matchup, which will be their first of two against New Orleans.
New Orleans was a play or two away from making it to the Super Bowl, but ended up falling in overtime to the Los Angeles Rams. If the Falcons come beat the Saints on the road, they will send a message to the rest of the league. Assuming they are in contention at this point, a win could be the momentum they need to finish the season at a sprint.
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