Spinnable Sports Your Sports, Our Spin
Neither of the teams involved in this game have had much success so far this season, but both will be eager the get a win on Sunday. The Falcons are 4-6 and currently sit in last place in the NFC South, and the Jaguars are 2-8 in last place in the AFC South.
| MATCHUP | ATL | JAX | ADV |
|---|---|---|---|
| -1.21 | 0.79 | JAX | |
| QB Comparison | 0.99 | -0.99 | ATL |
| RB Comparison | -0.90 | 0.90 | JAX |
| O-Line vs D-Line RUN | -2.16 | 0.74 | JAX |
| O-Line vs D-Line PASS | 1.73 | 2.39 | JAX |
| WR vs Pass Defense | -0.15 | -0.04 | JAX |
| TE vs Pass Defense | 0.27 | -1.12 | ATL |
| Special Teams | -1.20 | 1.20 | JAX |
| JAX wins by 6.5 | -2.63 | 3.87 | JAX |
QB Comparison
It’s no surprise to learn that Falcons veteran QB Matt Ryan has outplayed the Jaguars rookie Lawrence. Ryan currently ranks 16th overall in QBR compared to Lawrence who ranks 29th overall.
RB Comparison
When it comes to production at the running back position, the advantage goes to Jacksonville. James Robinson and Carlos Hyde share time in the Jaguars backfield, and that combination has found more success than likely anticipated. For the Falcons, Mike Davis ultimately ended up being a disappointment after being given the opportunity to emerge as the teams lead back.
O-Line vs D-Line
RUNNING
It seems fair to assume that the Falcons struggles to move the ball on the ground cannot all be blamed on Mike Davis, as Atlanta’s offensive line has been absolutely awful at run blocking this season ranked 29th overall in that category. The Jaguars have the 15th ranked defensive line when it comes to stopping the run so it seems likely the Falcons will struggle to move the ball on the ground yet again.
On the flip side, Jacksonville’s offensive line ranks 8th overall in run blocking. They’ll be going up against a Falcons defensive line that is 21st overall at stopping the run. It seems likely that the Jaguars will be able to move the ball on the ground, so as long as they do not fall behind early they should be able to control the pace and dictate the action on the ground throughout the game.
PASSING
When it comes to pass protection, both the Falcons and Jaguars are ranked above average. Jacksonville has the 10th ranked pass protection compared to Atlanta at 13th overall. Neither team has a defensive line that generates regular pressure on opposing QBs so expect both Matt Ryan and Trevor Lawrence to each have plenty of time to throw.
Receivers vs Pass Defense
With the Falcons best receiver Calvin Ridley sidelined due to personal matters, the Jaguars defensive secondary faces a much easier day than they otherwise would. One area Atlanta does have an advantage is at tight end with Kyle Pitts, as Jacksonville has struggled to slow down opposing tight ends this season. Look for the Falcons to feed Pitts early and often.
Special Teams Comparison
When it comes to the kicking game, Jacksonville has a significant advantage over Atlanta. In a game that is likely to be close to the end, look for any missed opportunities in the kicking game to become extra costly in this one.
