The Falcons have hit rock bottom. After starting the season as one of the most successful teams in the league, they have fallen very far, very quickly, and are now riding a six-game losing streak. With a roster that includes quarterback Matt Ryan, wideout Julio Jones and running back Devonta Freeman, offensive talent is not a missing ingredient. Regardless, offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan has come under scrutiny for his schemes' lackluster results.
The Falcons hadn't lost by more than 10 points this season until they were shut out 38-0 to the Panthers on Sunday. It was a punch in the gut loss to a divisional rival, but the Falcons could surprise and find a fire after getting embarrassed. On Sunday, they're set to face a Jacksonville team that put on an even bigger offensive show last week than the Panthers did.
The Jaguars are fresh off a 51-16 win against the Colts, and despite a 5-8 record they are still in the hunt for the AFC South title. Quarterback Blake Bortles started off rocky, unable to hit receivers and fumbling twice, but was able to shake it off at halftime and finish the game with 250 yards and three touchdowns.
The team also made some changes to the defense ahead of the Colts game and got unlikely performances from Nick Marshall, Andre Branch and Jordan Tripp. Tripp not only stepped up on the field, he also wore the defensive headset on the sideline and made sure the players were set correctly before the snap. The Jags' defense is young and has had its share of issues early on, but if its showing Sunday was any indication, it could give the Falcons a challenge.
The experts at CBS Sports are unanimous in their pick of Jacksonville over Atlanta. Here at SB Nation, two experts have slightly more faith in the Falcons in Week 15, but the others are in agreement that the Jaguars get the win.
Ryan Van Bibber | Stephen White | Joel Thorman | David Fucillo | Danny Kelly | Matt Ufford | PFT Commenter | OddsShark | |
ATL vs JAX | JAX | ATL | ATL | JAX | JAX | JAX | JAX | JAX |