Sixteen Players to Watch: Falcons vs. Jets
The Falcons will play in primetime for the second consecutive week as they host the New York Jets on ESPN's Monday Night Football. Here is a look at players to watch for from both teams.
Antonio Cromartie had a rough week 4 lined up against Nate Washington. How will he fare against the Falcons' stacked offense?
Look for CB Desmond Trufant to line up against WR Jeremy Kerley. Lockdown defense on third downs will be key for Trufant.
RB Bilal Powell is tied with Arian Foster for the most rushing yards in the AFC. With RB Mike Goodson coming back, how much will Powell continue to carry the load?
RB Jacquizz Rodgers leads the Falcons in rush yards. With the Jets having one of the best rush defenses in the NFL, how effective will Rodgers be?
OL Brian Winters is getting the start over Vlad Ducasse this week. He is transitioning from tackle to guard. Can he stop a player like Osi Umenyiora from getting to QB Geno Smith?
Jeremy Trueblood has taken over as the team's starting right tackle. With his run blocking abilities, it should make room for Jacquizz Rodgers and Jason Snelling to be effective.
QB Geno Smith has committed some costly turnovers for the Jets. Can the Falcons apply the right pressure to Smith and rattle him?
DE Jonathan Massaquoi has stepped up since the injury of Kroy Biermann. Look for Massaquoi to continue to key the pass rush
TE Kellen Winslow led all Jets receivers in week 4 with six receptions and 73 yards. How can the Falcons' defense limit Winslow from having another strong offensive week?
WR Julio Jones and QB Matt Ryan have connected on big plays this season. With Cromartie likely on Jones, can he create the space to still make the big plays?
RB Mike Goodson returns to the Jets lineup after being suspended the first four games of the season. Will his legs be fresh or rusty in his first game back?
Justin Blalock will likely line up against Sheldon Richardson. This matchup should dictate how well the Falcons can run the ball.
Muhammad Wilkerson already has three sacks on the season. How can the Falcons' offensive line slow him down?
Omar Gaither says that he's caught up and ready to contribute. Gaither recorded two tackles in the second-half of last week's game.
DT Sheldon Richardson will work on solidifying pressure up front so that Wilkerson can be effective
TE Tony Gonzalez has been nothing short of consistent for the Falcons offense. He caught the game-winning touchdown against the Jets in 2009. Can the Jets defense stop him?
