NFL Odds: Are the Pats for Real?

Atlanta 2-0 (Road: 0-0) 1:00pm ET

New England 1-1 (Home: 1-0) TV: FOX

The four point favorite New England Patriots will try to prove that they are not an overrated team when they host the undefeated Atlanta Falcons this Sunday at 1 PM ET at Gillette Stadium.

The Patriots offense was shut down by the Jets last week. QB Tom Brady went 23 of 47 for 216 yards with no touchdowns and one interception. Before Sunday, Brady had gone without a touchdown just once in his previous 19 regular season games.

The Falcons probably learned how to make Brady uncomfortable from the tapes of the Jets defensive performance last week. However I don’t think they will blitz Brady as much as NY did, but all NFL betting fans must keep an eye on DE John Abraham; he will attack Brady’s blind side often and hard.

Last week the Falcons forced two turnovers and sacked Panthers QB Jake Delhomme once vs. Carolina. They allowed 440 yards of total offense in a 28-20 win. Rookie defensive tackle Peria Jerry is out for the season after injuring his left knee against the Panthers, not good news if you realize how poor the Falcons run defense is.

For Atlanta is not only about stopping Brady but also about putting some big numbers on the offensive side. Tony Gonzalez has 2 touchdowns thru 2 weeks and appears to be QB Matt Ryan’s new favorite target.

“He’s one of the greatest tight ends of all time,” Ryan said.

Brady and coach Bill Belichik are waiting to find out is WR Wes Welker will be back on Sunday after missing Week 2 against the Jets with a knee injury. He was not at practice on Wednesday, returned to practice Thursday on a limited basis. It will be a game time decision.

Last time they faced each other, Atlanta gave up 141 yards rushing as it lost 31-28 at home in 2005. Brady completed 22 of 27 for 350 yards and three TDs.

NFL Betting Odds:

Atlanta Falcons +4 -110
New England Patriots -4 -110
O/U 45 -110

My pick: Brady and the Pats will cover the spread and the Over.