WHO HAS THE EDGE?

WHO HAS THE EDGE?

Falcons offense vs. Patriots defense

Usually one would expect Bill Belichick to take one look at the Atlanta offense and make sure Julio Jones doesn't beat him. The Patriots are better than anyone at taking away the best player in an offense and making others beat them.

Thing is, the Falcons are so balanced that they might not even blink if Jones is blanketed for the whole game. Jones caught fewer than five passes in six games this season; the Falcons went 5-1 in those games and averaged nearly 33 points. The Patriots may be better off making sure running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman are held in check, but that is easier said than done.

Belichick will certainly have some new looks ready for Matt Ryan and company, but it's hard to imagine the Falcons struggling to move the ball.

Who has the edge: Atlanta

Patriots offense vs. Falcons defense

While we give the Falcons a slight edge when they have the ball, the Patriots have a much larger edge when it is in Tom Brady's hands.

While the Falcons defense has been better of late, it has given up chunks of yards all season, especially through the air. Atlanta has made up for it by forcing turnovers. The Falcons have at least one takeaway in 10 straight games and in 15 of 18 games overall. But counting on that against Brady and the Pats is playing with fire. In 14 games since Brady returned from suspension, New England has played 10 turnover-free games on offense.

Thanks to LeGarrette Blount (19 rushing TDs), the Patriots are also one of the most effective red zone teams in the NFL. Expect plenty of points in this one.

Who has the edge: New England

So who wins the game?

The Falcons may be too balanced to shut down on offense, but the Pats may be able to make them one-dimensional simply by grabbing an early lead. That could force the Falcons out of their element. New England, on the other hand, would probably be just fine with the ball in Brady's hands, even if he has to bring them from behind.

Brady and the Patriots have been here before, yet may be more motivated than ever. Bet on them getting their revenge on the NFL for Deflategate.

Prediction: New England 33, Atlanta 27