Revisiting the top Falcons-Raiders Week 2 matchups

Before the Atlanta Falcons came away with a 35-28 victory over the Oakland Raiders, we took a look at three matchups to watch.

Let’s revisit those matchups.

Julio Jones versus Sean Smith

No question Julio Jones got the better of Sean Smith. Jones easily burned Smith on a 21-yard score and also on a 48-yard catch, finishing the day with five receptions for 106 yards.

Smith received help over the top for the majority of the day, resulting in big days from the tight ends. Rookie Austin Hooper finished with three catches for 84 yards and Jacob Tamme hauled in five balls for 75 yards and a touchdown.

Falcons’ ground game versus Raiders’ run defense

Atlanta had troubling opening holes in Week 1 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but things proved to be a bit easier against the Raiders.

The Falcons for 139 yards a touchdown — more than double the output they had in the season opener. Devonta Freeman led the way with 17 carries for 93 yards and Tevin Coleman chipped in with 46 yards and a game-clinching 13-yard touchdown on 12 carries.

Desmond Trufant versus Amari Cooper

Dan Quinn said we could see Desmond Trufant shadow Amari Cooper, and that’s exactly what happened. Trufant allowed three catches for 42 yards on six targets. He also added a pass breakup that could’ve easily been an interception. It was another stellar outing for the Falcons’ star cornerback.