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The Jacksonville Jaguars will host the Atlanta Falcons for a preseason clash on Saturday night. This is a matchup of playoff teams from last year, and this game will feature a contrast of styles. The Atlanta Falcons want to win with offense, while the Jacksonville Jaguars feature one of the top defenses in the NFL.
The Atlanta Falcons are 0-2 this preseason, suffering losses to both the Kansas City Chiefs and New York Jets. The Jaguars lost the preseason opener to the New Orleans Saints, before bouncing back with a strong performance to beat the Minnesota Vikings. The Jacksonville Jaguars are -4.5 over the Falcons in this game.
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Falcons Resting Key Starters
The Atlanta Falcons have already announced that they will be playing without their two best playmakers on Saturday night. Head Coach Dan Quinn told the media that Devonta Freeman and Julio Jones will sit out for the third straight preseason game. The Falcons will struggle to score points without their two biggest weapons.
Veteran quarterback Matt Ryan is expected to play an extended amount of minutes on Saturday. Ryan was impressive in the week two loss, completing five of his seven passes for 90 yards. He connected with tight end Austin Hooper for a four yard TD. Look for Ryan to try to get the ball to talented rookie Calvin Ridley in this game.
Jaguars Feature Solid D
The Jacksonville Jaguars will have one of the best defenses in the NFL this season, led by cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Ramsey is not shy about taking on the top receivers, and has plenty to say in the media as well. Defensive end Dante Fowler is another player who can make game changing plays on defense. Look for Fowler and Ramsey to dominate on Saturday night.
Offensively, Leonard Fournette will lead the way for the Jaguars in 2018. Fournette exploded onto the scene as a rookie and should have a big impact in this game and this season. The Jaguars won’t give the strong running back a ton of touches in this game, but he will still find a way to make an impact.
Falcons Struggle in Loss
The Atlanta Falcons should contend for the playoffs in the NFC this season, but they will be shorthanded on Saturday night. Calvin Ridley has been impressive in his first two preseason games, but will be facing a tough Jaguars secondary. Look for the Falcons to struggle to put up points in this game.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are planning to play their defensive starters for at least a quarter in this game, but they have depth on defense. Look for a steady dose of Leonard Fournette to score an early touchdown and set the tone against the Falcons. Bet the Jacksonville Jaguars -4.5 to beat the Atlanta Falcons.
