Matt Williamson ( @williamsonNFL ) of Scouts Inc. tweeted his top defenses for the upcoming season. The Falcons were not on there, but here are the teams that were on that list, and who are also on the Falcons 2012 schedule:

Chiefs - I am telling you, I am telling you, I am telling you...Watch out for this week 1 game in KC. When going through the schedule, this is the game I cant seem to settle on (I have the Falcons going 10-6, but thats with a win in KC). KC has talent at all 3 levels on defense, I really like their secondary and LB this season. For now I will take the Falcons by a FG, but by Sept 9th I may flip flop to KC by 3.

Eagles - And this time its in Philly, with a chance to get revenge for last seasons game at the GA Dome. Considering the Falcons past history playing good teams on the road, outdoors, plus what Trent Cole did alone to the Falcons O line last yr in that game? As much as I hate all things Philly, I think the Eagles win.

Cardinals - Despite the Cardinals being on this list, I think the Falcons lay it on them at the GA Dome. Its a decent secondary with Wilson at safety and the SEC product Peterson at Corner. Decent D-Line. Aging Steeler retreads at LB. Falcons lay 40+ on them with ease. Next.

Giants - Yes, time to get revenge for last yrs playoff game. At the Dome, 2nd to last game of the reg season. Falcons pull out the W. Sure JPP and Tuck will get some pressure. But not when Turner is running straight at them, gouging them for chunks of yardage, beautifully setting up some pass plays as NY has to play honest in attempt to slow down the run. I just think the Falcons are up for this game and play one of their most complete games of the yr, Giants on the road, dont.

So I have them going 3-1 vs these "high end" defenses. If that were to be the case, you'd have to like the projected results against their entire schedule. Surprisingly, even going 3-1 against these teams I am guessing 10-6 for the season, even though it would seem that theyd have 11 or more if I have them winning 75% of the games that are played against the best defenses. But any way I run it, I come up with 10 wins. Some other good teams out there too, you know?

Other top defenses per Scouts Inc: SF, PGH, BALT, SEA, HOU, CIN, BUF, CHI, JAX