Storylines: Falcons vs. Saints
From key matchups to the return of key players, keep an eye on these storylines heading into the season-opener against the New Orleans Saints.
WR Julio Jones looked back to 100 percent during his time against the Tennessee Titans, showing his ability to shake off tackles during 52-yard catch-and-run touchdown. The game against the New Orleans Saints will be Jones' first regular season game since suffering a season-ending foot injury last year.
Saints' WR Brandin Cooks is known for his speed and covering him will be one focus for the Falcons' defense going into the season-opener on Sunday.
This week, the players will be focused on transitioning from the low-priority final preseason game to a high-pressure season-opener against one of their biggest rivals, the New Orleans Saints.
Although RB Steven Jackson suffered an injury that kept him out of most of preseason, the beginning of the regular season will mark this veteran's return to the field.
Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints is the first time the season-opener has been played at home in since 2009.
A key matchup to watch this weekend will be T Jake Matthews against Saints' veteran DE Cameron Jordan.
Saints' TE Jimmy Graham has been a dominant player in the Saints' offense in the past and will present a challenge for the Falcons' defense in the coming game.
The Falcons' offensive line looks to hold strong against a tough Saints' pass-rush during Sunday's game.
DE Kroy Biermann looked strong through the preseason and Sunday will mark his first regular season game since suffering a season-ending injury last year.
QB Matt Ryan and Saints' QB Drew Brees are both elite quarterbacks looking to start their seasons off on the right note on Sunday.
Rookie RB Devonta Freeman is one of several rookies that, after making the 53-man roster, are shifting to the main locker room with the beginning of the season.
