Atlanta Falcons (12-5) vs New England Patriots (15-2)
Falcons come in on a six game winning streak. The offense ranked first in points per game in 2016 scoring an average of 33.8 points. This came behind the strong play of QB Matt Ryan who had a passer rating of 117.1 with 38 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. Wide receivers Julio Jones and Mohamed Sanu put on stellar performances combining for 10 touchdowns during the season. Add to this the potent rushing attack behind running backs Tevin Coleman and Devonta Freeman who combined for 19 touchdowns during the season. While the defense finished ranked 15th against the run, they made marked improvement through the final six games of the season.
Patriots come in off an eight game winning streak. The offense ranked third in points per game and fourth in yards per game. QB Tom Brady finished 2016 with a passer rating of 112.2 completing 28 touchdowns and just two interceptions. The team has been able to overcome the loss of tight end Rob Gronkowski with outstanding performances from wide receivers Julian Edelman and Chris Hogan. Running back LeGarrette Blount rushed for 1,161 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2016. The defense finished 2016 ranked first in scoring defense and third in rushing yards allowed per game.
These two teams are pretty evenly matched on offense which means the game will come down to turnovers and the power of the defense to stop the scoring. Patriots lead the series matchup 7-6 and will get their fifth Super Bowl win on Sunday. Prediction: Patriots
No comments:
Post a Comment