The Atlanta Falcons come into Week 3 off an embarrassing collapse a week ago and a home beating before that. Their opponent will be a Chicago Bears squad coming off two straight wins to start the season.
The Falcons defense this season has been about as sturdy as a wet cardboard box, which makes this point spread – favored by 3 points – a puzzler to me. I like the Bears to not only cover this game, but win outright as well.
Falcons vs Bears odds: Falcons -3, total 47.5 at BetRivers Sportsbook | Matchup Report Stats
Why Atlanta will cover the spread
The Falcons offense hasn’t been the problem so far in 2020. Matt Ryan has thrown for 723 yards (second in NFL) while his top two receivers Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley both rank in the Top 10 of receiving yards. However, a large portion of those stats came in garbage time Week 1 vs the Seahawks after the Falcons were down big.
Julio Jones is dealing with a hamstring injury and is questionable heading into this game. His status is worth monitoring as the spread could drop below the key number of 3 if he is ruled out.
The key for the Falcons offense this week will be keeping a clean pocket for Ryan against a ferocious Bears pass rush. Khalil Mack, Robert Quinn and Akiem Hicks all had sacks lastweek and should be excited about their matchups this week.