The Atlanta Falcons play host to the Baltimore Ravens, Thursday September 1st, as the Falcons desperately try to win one preseason game before the 2011 NFL regular season kicks-off. The Ravens hold a 4-3 edge over the Falcons in preseason play. NFL oddsmakers have the Falcons as -3 point home favorites over the Ravens with the over/under set at 37.5 points. Start your 2011 NFL preseason off right by getting your bet on the latest Ravens vs Falcons spread avaliable now.
Baltimore (2-1) lost their preseason opener 6-13 at Philadelphia, but rebounded with wins over Kansas City 31-13 and Washington 34-31, both at home. Harbaugh said Thursday night's game will be players' best chance to turn heads and adjust opinions. Ravens starters will probably play against Falcons as they continue making up for missed offseason Kris Wilson, who has become a favorite to land the third tight end spot on the Ravens. Rookie cornerback Chykie Brown is one such player who figures to get considerable playing time against the Falcons. The first of the club's two picks in the fifth round of the 2011 draft, Brown was lauded at Texas for his tackling ability and speed, but he has had few opportunities to showcase those skills in a logjam at cornerback. Rookies aren't the only ones seeking to fortify their spots on the team. Veterans like defensive tackle Lamar Divens, wide receiver James Hardy and running back Jalen Parmele could use solid outings Thursday night to make an impression on coaches.
Atlanta (0-3) has lost all three preseason games. They lost at home to Miami 23-28, lost in Jacksonville 13-15 and in Pittsburgh 16-34. It may not be indicative of their regular-season game plan, but the Falcons are using a base "11" package (one back, one tight end, three wide receivers) this preseason. They are anticipating lots of games against 3-4 defenses — such as the Ravens' — this year; it's why quarterback Matt Ryan attempted 42 passes during one half against Pittsburgh last week. First-round draft pick Julio Jones and stalwart wideout Roddy White are the team's co-leaders with nine preseason catches each. Receiver Harry Douglas and tight end Tony Gonzalez are also returning to the Falcons' roster this year. Defensively, the Falcons seem poised to make a run at the top of every major ranking with returnees such as defensive end John Abraham (13 sacks last year) and cornerback Brent Grimes (23 pass breakups), as well as free-agent defensive end Ray Edwards (eight sacks with Minnesota).
Baltimore Ravens vs Atlanta Falcons
When: Thursday September 1st@7:30 PM ET
Pick: Falcons -3
Point-Spreads recommends you check out NFL Point Spreads before the Baltimore Ravens vs Atlanta Falcons game.
The Bottom Line: The Falcons have to win this to have a little confidence going into the regular season. Start your 2011 NFL preseason off right by getting your Baltimore Ravens vs Atlanta Falcons predictions in now.
