The Falcons are very much a rush-first offense, with the second fewest passing plays in the NFL, and facing a loss to injury of their top Tight End this week. The lack of a pass attack will be a huge issue when facing the Commanders on Sunday, as Washington's surging defense has sliced and diced the run, allowing an average of just 57 yards in their last three games. In Fact the entire Commanders defense has taken off, showing significant improvement in all areas against not insignificant opposition. The same cannot be said for the Falcons' defense who are bottom five in points and yards allowed.
Other than the run game the Mariota-lead Falcons are pretty limited. They have put up points in their last 4 games, but haven't faced an defense ranked higher than 25th in four games. Mariota is sacked a lot considering how seldom he throws the ball, but hasn't given the ball up often. Heinicke has the Commanders offense charged up, but it is more as a game manager. The Commanders' recent success relies on many short rush attempts, playing a very successful and time-eating style. The Commanders are 1st in time of possession; the Falcons are 26th. Both Defenses had success pressuring the quarterback last week, but for the Commanders that success is typical, with nearly double the passer pressures and Qb hits of the Falcons.
I've been riding the Commanders lately and am confident of further success this week. No one has been better at limiting points lately, and they will have their scoring opportunities vs. the Falcons' weak D. Take the Commanders to win and cover.