Can the Falcons run well enough to give their defense sufficient rest? The Falcons' defense was not able to stop rookie quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and running back Jerick McKinnon, therefore it's reasonable to conclude that they are going to have a mighty tough time with two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback Eli Manning and New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings. The Falcons may have to play keep away on offense and try to limit the exposure of their defense. The Falcons have used four running backs this season and are trying to figure out ways to get Antone Smith more carries behind Steven Jackson. "On offense, we have to do a lot more to help our guys out on defense," Falcons wide receiver Roddy White said. "We have to get some drives going. Some 10- and 12-play drives going and score points at the end."
Will Matt Ryan and the offense keep up if the game turns into a shootout? The Giants are coming off a 45-14 pasting they put on Washington on a Thursday night. Thus, they've had a 10-day rest. After scoring 14 points in each of the first two games, they have posted 30 and 45 in victories. The Falcons, whose season-high is 56 points, are ready to attempt to keep pace if the game turns into a shootout.
Can the Falcons end their streak of nine consecutive losses in outdoor stadiums? The last time Falcons won a road game against a team with a .500 or better record was 24-23 at Tampa Bay (Bucs were 6-4 before the game) on Nov. 25, 2012. That also was their last victory in an outdoor stadium, including games at Cincinnati and Minnesota this season.
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