What will be the Falcons record in 2022?
By: Jake Rajala
The Atlanta Falcons are a mysterious, young football team. I believe that they have a few potential superstars, but they will likely have growing pains in 2022. With that said, I’m going to simply project the Falcons highs, lows, and overall record next season.
Week 1: vs Saints
The Saints really improved this off-season and I expect the Saints WRs (especially Chris Olave with his matchup) to have a lot of success in this game. I believe the Saints win 35-17.
Week 2: at the Rams
I do believe the Rams are a Super Bowl contender and they will flex their strength in this game. I expect LA and their pass rush to mop the floor against the Falcons by a score of 35-14.
Week 3: at the Seahawks
I expect the Falcons to pick up their first victory against the Seahawks (who could have the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft). I believe the Falcons win 24-21.
Week 4: vs the Browns
The Browns will surely not have Deshaun Watson, but I love the Browns weapons and their pass rush. I believe CLE wins this game 28-21.
Week 5: at the Buccaneers
The Falcons will struggle to run the football against Tampa and I’m far from convinced that a Falcons QB will keep pace with TB12 at this point. I believe the Bucs win 35-17.
Week 6: vs the 49ers
I actually like the Falcons chances to play spoiler in this showdown. I expect the 49ers to contain Trey Lance and I honestly believe Kyle Pitts could exploit the 49ers secondary. I believe the Falcons win 24-21.
Week 7: at the Bengals
It’s clear that the Falcons have a brutal 2022 schedule and I expect them to lose against Cincy by a score of 38-17.
Week 8: vs the Panthers
Christian McCaffrey could make magic happen, but I don’t trust Sam Darnold (to say the least). I believe the Falcons, who have a more sharp QB, will win a close NFC South clash by a score of 24-17.
Week 9: vs the Chargers
I really like the Chargers outlook and I expect them to have a monster win against ATL by a score of 42-17.
Week 10: at the Panthers
I foresee the Falcons finishing ahead of the Panthers in the NFC South next season. I believe the Falcons also sweep CAR and win this contest by a score of 28-21.
Week 11: vs the Bears
I expect the Bears to struggle a lot next season (even with likely growth from Justin Fields). I believe the Falcons win 28-17 in this battle.
Week 12: at the Commanders
The Commanders are a bit overrated in my opinion. I feel that Mariota will be more efficient than Wentz next season, as well. I expect the Falcons to have an “upset” win by a score of 21-17.
Week 13: vs the Steelers
It seems like the Steelers are one or two steps ahead of the Falcons at this moment. I believe the T.J. Watt-led Steelers pick up a 28-21 victory.
Week 15: at the Saints
I know that the Falcons despise the Saints, but I still expect Cameron Jordan and the Saints to win 35-21 in their second game.
Week 16: at the Ravens
The Ravens secondary should make life difficult for Mariota (I assume) and LJ should lead his team to a 28-17 victory.
Week 17: vs the Cardinals
The Cardinals (and DeAndre Hopkins) should have a strong game against the Falcons and win 35-21.
Week 18: vs the Buccaneers
The Bucs will most likely keep the gas on the pedal in this game and win with an impressive score of 42-17.
Final record: 6-11