Projecting the statistical performance for the Falcons against the Patriots Sunday night

It is once again time to try to project the Falcons’ stats for the week ahead. This time, the numbers are going to be bigger, because I doubt either of these defenses can stop the opposing offense for long.

Unfortunately, last week’s projections wound up being very close for the Dolphins, who put up exactly the point total (20) and almost the exact yardage total (I said 300, they got 289). The Falcons fell woefully short of their projected totals, though, putting up half my projected points (I said 34, they got 17) and over 50 fewer yards when all was said and done. It’s fair to say, though, that the production they put up did not suggest they’d only score 17 points, which is a faint note of hope.

This week, I’m going for broke again with the offense, which I think can’t help but break out against a depleted Patriots defense. I do have this coming down to the wire, though, so I’d prepare for a Sunday night nailbiter. I’m sure you were, anyway.

Offense: 35 points, 430 yards

Matt Ryan: 24/30, 320 yards, 4 TDs, 1 INT

Devonta Freeman: 22 carries, 90 yards, 1 TD, 4 receptions, 40 yards

Tevin Coleman: 5 carries, 20 yards, 3 receptions, 60 yards, 1 TD

Julio Jones: 6 receptions, 90 yards, 1 TD

Mohamed Sanu: 7 receptions, 80 yards

Austin Hooper: 2 receptions, 15 yards, 1 TD

Taylor Gabriel: 1 receptions, 20 yards, 1 TD

Justin Hardy: 1 reception, 15 yards

Defense: 34 points, 410 yards

Grady Jarrett: 1 sack, 1 forced fumble

Brooks Reed: 1 sack

Special Teams

Matt Bryant: 5/5 XP

Matt Bosher: 2 punts, 42 yards per punt

Andre Roberts: 5 kickoff returns, 70 yards, 1 punt return, 8 yards