The Falcons would be smart to pass the torch from Warrick Dunn to Jerious Norwood starting this week.  The Saints don’t have a lot of speed in the linebacking corps and it’s possible that Norwood could get to the corner for some big runs.  He’s averaging 5.7 yards per carry this season while Dunn is only averaging 3.2 ypc.  With Alge Crumpler likely out for this game the Falcons would be smart to go three wide and attack down the field if Byron Leftwich has some time to throw the ball.  The Saints woke up on defense the last two weeks and they will likely blitz a lot against the Falcons who have allowed 22 sacks this season.  It will be interesting to see if the Falcons get Joe Horn out of the mothballs this week as he’ll be facing his old team.

The Saints hope that they are starting to turn the corner on offense after last week’s good effort against the Seahawks.  The Saints must keep John Abraham (5 sacks) out of their backfield and they might be able to as they have only allowed 4 sacks this season.  The Falcons are allowing 220.5 yards passing per game so Brees will likely have some success throwing the ball.  He will look for Lance Moore and David Patten often as both of them had good games last week.  Reggie Bush (244 yards rushing, 166 receiving) will cause problems for the Falcons front seven because of his speed.

PREDICTION:  I have a feeling that the Saints are starting to turn the corner and they will likely be fired up at home.  SAINTS 27, FALCONS 20.

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