Atlanta Falcons vs. New Orleans Saints: Why the Odds Are Wrong and Atlanta Wins

They say statistics lie, and that can be true, but it depends on how you look at them. Dig a little deeper and use a little common sense to see through deceptive numbers.

Many experts say the New Orleans Saints have too much offense for the Atlanta Falcons defense. Drew Brees is apparently invincible. Darren Sproles is too hard to catch. There are too many weapons to cover.

This appears to be supported by statistics.

Now take the numbers, and discount the first three games. This will paint a very different picture. For Atlanta's offense, passing yards are up. Rushing yards are up. Atlanta's offensive weapons are every bit as hard to stop as the Saints receivers and running backs.

Atlanta's defense is similarly looking good and playing much better than it is ranked. Opponents third-down conversions are down. Even the kicking game looks good.

If I had to choose, give me Atlanta's team over New Orleans' players.

I see matchups all over the field that favor the Falcons. Not by entire season statistics, but by how they are playing now.

This is an important game that could decide the direction each team will take this year. I think you will see the best out of the Atlanta Falcons, and they will win. Head coach Michael Smith says all aspects of the team are "pointing up," and I agree.