Week Three begins with what looks like an easy game for the Green Bay Packers, as they take on the 0-2 Atlanta Falcons at Lambeau Field on Thursday night.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons are currently 0-2, and have had plenty of issues at the quarterback position.
Third-string QB Cooper Rush, starting due to injuries to Michael Penix Jnr and Tua Tagovailoa, has 22 of 39 for 229 yards, one touchdown and four interceptions. This has been an issue at the Falcons for a few years now, ever since Matt Ryan (now GM) retired.
Green Bay Packers
No such quarterback issues for the Packers, as Jordan Love has made the job his own since stepping into the shoes of Aaron Rodgers.
So far this season, Love has 37 of 71 for 532 yards, four touchdowns and an interception.
History
Their last five meetings have seen the Falcons winning three, the Packers winning the other two. However, both Green Bay wins have been at Lambeau Field, the last one being in Week 4 of the 2020 season, the Packers running out 30-16 winners. In their last meeting, in Atlanta, the Falcons won by a point, 25-24.
Prediction
I don’t see a close game in this one — the Packers are a far superior team. The Falcons welcome back Penix Jnr at quarterback for his first start of the season, and I expect the Packers pass rush to get to him often (the Falcons’ O-Line has given up five sacks so far in two games).
Despite the poor QB play, Bijan Robinson has been the stand-out player for the Falcons. He has 155 yards on 37 carries, and 11 receptions for 99 yards and a touchdown.
Packers to win by 7 points, Bijan Robinson to score a touchdown and Jordan Love to throw for over 250 yards.
What time is the game? The game kicks off at 8:15 pm (EST) / 01:15 am (BST).
How to watch – The game is available on Amazon Prime (US) or Sky Sports Main Event from midnight.