Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta Falcons

KEY MATCHUPS: Saints at Falcons

Rookie Jake Matthews will start at left tackle for Falcons.

Credit: Curtis Compton

Credit: Curtis Compton

Rookie Jake Matthews will start at left tackle for Falcons.
By
Sept 6, 2014

Saints RDE Cameron Jordan vs. Falcons LT Jake Matthews: Jordan broke through with 12.5 sacks last season. Matthews has seen Derrick Morgan, Cameron Wake and J.J. Watt in the preseason. Now, he'll get to see NFL regular-season game speed.

Saints CB Patrick Robinson vs. Falcons WR Roddy White: Robinson beat out Champ Bailey for the No. 2 cornerback spot. Robinson had a strong camp and has big-play ability. He's been slowed by injuries and inconsistent play over his career. He's considered the weak link in a strong secondary. White doesn't appear to be slowing at age 32.

Saints S Jairus Byrd vs. Falcons QB Matt Ryan: Byrd, who has uncanny ball skills, snatched 22 career interceptions over five seasons with the Bills. Ryan, who tossed a career-high 17 interceptions last season, was razor-sharp during the exhibition season, as he completed 75.7 percent of his passes. He welcomes the return of Julio Jones (broken foot) and the addition of Devin Hester.

About the Author

Honored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his "long and distinguished reporting in the field of pro football," D. Orlando Ledbetter, Esq. has covered the NFL 28 seasons. A graduate of Howard University, he's a winner of Georgia Sportswriter of the Year and three Associated Press Sports Editor awards.

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