Falcons talk: What does Atlanta have to do to make you happy tomorrow?

It’s the season opener, when reality collides headfirst with our expectations, so it’s perfectly legitimate to be a little nervous and very amped about this matchup against the Bears. I know I am.

Let me tell you my expectations for this game, if you’ll indulge me, and what I need to see to be satisfied. I expect the Falcons to win this game by two scores, because I think they’re that talented, the Bears are depleted, and Atlanta has all the motivation in the world to go out there and make a statement after stewing over (and hopefully getting over) the Super Bowl. All I need to make make me happy is a win, though, because I know Week 1 road games can go sideways on you, and I know the Bears aren’t likely to be a cupcake opponent no matter how weak they look on paper.

So let’s talk about your expectations, and what it’ll take for you to turn off the game Sunday with a smile on your face. Then let’s just talk Falcons on this fine Saturday evening, and enjoy yourselves.