Jason Kirk let us know earlier today when the 2011-2012 schedule broke. And there's already some cause for concern. Yasinskas - love him or hate him - made some discussion-worthy observations on the NFL Nation Blog.
It looks like the folks who made the schedule want to test the Falcons early. They have to open the season with five straight games against teams that either made the playoffs or won at least 10 games last season.
Take a look at the two-game stretch following Atlanta’s Week 8 bye. The Falcons travel to Indianapolis and then host the Saints. Many people like to debate whether Ryan really is an elite quarterback. If he can lead his team to consecutive victories against Peyton Manning and Drew Brees, that might put him firmly in the elite category.
NFL's schedulers royally screwed us made our road to the SB somewhat difficult. I know there's a formula, but come on, throw us a freaking bone. Aside from not having to play any cold-weather games and not having to face any teams coming off their bye week, I'm less-than-thrilled. Don't get me wrong, I'm very confident in our personnel. If MM and VanGorder don't regress any further, we should be fine. And to be honest, I'm sick of defending Ryan critics who argue he hasn't been tested. Maybe weeks 9 and 10 will shut them up.
Discuss!