Sixteen Players to Watch: Falcons at Dolphins
The 1-1 Falcons are looking to put a blemish on the 2-0 Dolphins' record as they head to Miami to face the team on Sunday. Here is a look at players to watch for from both teams
Rookie LB Joplo Bartu's impact might not be seen in numbers, but you will definitely feel his presence on the field
WR Brian Hartline had 114-yards and one touchdown last week against the Browns. Can he continue to be this effective on the Falcons' young CB tandem in Robert Alford and Desmond Trufant?
RB Jason Snelling stepped in last week after injuries and scored two touchdowns. Look for him to continue to capitalize on his opportunities while stepping in for RB Steven Jackson
Starting Miami S Chris Clemons was held out of practice on Thursday due to an undisclosed injury. Will he be healthy enough to have an impact on the Falcons' wide receivers?
With Kroy Biermann lost for the year due to injury, DE Jonathan Massaquoi is sticking to the 'next man up' mentality and shows a lot of promise in his second year
CB Brent Grimes may have his toughest test going against former teammates Roddy White and Julio Jones on Sunday. No matter who Grimes covers on the field, look for it to be a sure battle.
QB Matt Ryan may have different personnel on the field, but he will continue to use what worked for the team in last week's win against the Rams.
RB Lamar Miller rushed for 69-yards and a touchdown in week 2. Will the Falcons be able to stop the run game the Dolphins have to offer?
WR Julio Jones is coming off of a 11-catch, 182 yard performance against the Rams. Can the connection between him and QB Matt Ryan continue to heat up in Miami?
LB Dannell Ellerbe's stats won't be seen in takeaways, but he will apply various pass-rushing combinations in an attempt to get the offense to make mistakes
As the season continues, CB Desmond Trufant is continuing to show why he was the Falcons first round draft pick. Trufant will have to stay alert, as he will be going up against some pretty good Miami receivers
Speedy WR Mike Wallace has helped the Dolphins get off to a fast start. Can the Falcons' defense slow him down in Miami's home opener?
CB Robert Alford snagged his first NFL interception against the Saints and almost logged another one facing the Rams. Can he continue to apply this pressure against Miami's receivers?
DE Dion Jordan made a rookie mistake against the Colts last week and he will be looking to atone for that against the Falcons.
RT Lamar Holmes has been taking first team snaps at the left tackle position this week with Sam Baker being injured. How effective will he be at the left tackle position?
Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill has been limited for most of the week with a right shoulder injury. How much will that affect him?
