Saints RT Zach Strief vs. Falcons LB Vic Beasley: Strief, who's in his 11th season, continues to block at a high level in pass protection. He was listed as the NFL's top right tackle halfway through the season and his play hasn't slipped. "He's playing well," Falcons defensive coordinator Richard Smith said. Beasley has turned into a force in his second season in the league with 14.5 sacks. He uses his speed and a combination of moves to break free either around the edge or up the middle off stunts.
Saints WR Michael Thomas vs. Falcons CB Jalen Collins: Thomas, after a slow start, has played well in the Saints' vaunted passing attack. He leads the team with 82 catches. Thomas also has 891 yards and eight touchdowns. Collins has taken over for injured Pro Bowler Desmond Trufant and has played well in man-to-man coverage. He's also been playing the ball well in the air, dispelling the notion of his lack of instincts for the position. He had his first NFL interception against the Panthers.
Saints LB Nate Stupar vs. Falcons TE Levine Toilolo: The former Falcons reserve linebacker was called "Nasty Nate" for his demeanor on the field. He sets the edge against the run and scrapes off blocks in order to make tackles. He's played 357 defensive snaps (36.1 percent), mostly against the run. Toilolo has been key to getting the running game going and for occasionally slipping down field for a big play.
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