After being limited during this week's practices, right tackle Tyson Clabo is set to start against the Chargers on Sunday. Additionally, Sean Weatherspoon and Julio Jones will be suiting up. The inactives for Sunday's game include cornerback Chris Owens and running back Antone Smith, both of whom missed all practices this week and were ruled out on Saturday. Smith's absence means the Falcons will have to rely on other special teams players to pick up the slack. Smith is one of the team's core special teams players in coverages.
Chargers running back Ryan Matthews will make his season premier against the Falcons and will be a player to watch. He gained 1,450 all-purpose yards last season and will make San Diego's balanced offensive attack even more powerful. The Falcons run defense is ranked 25th in the league, allowing 135 yards per game.
Tight end Antonio Gates returns to the San Diego lineup as well, after missing last week. The other inactives for the Chargers are RB Ronnie Brown, LT Jared Gaither, SS Brandon Taylor, CB Shareece Wright, LB Jonas Mouton, DT Antonio Garay and TE Ladarius Green.
