So let's just say my confidence in the Falcons offense has been a little shaken in recent weeks. Three games of 14 points or less will do that to a man. Thus far, they've been quite the departure from the elite offense I had in mind at the beginning of the season.
But there is still hope they can turn things around this week. Why? Entering week six, the Panthers sport the sixth-worst run defense in the league, allowing over 135 rushing yards per game so far. After losing starting linebackers Thomas Davis and Jon Beason to season-ending injuries, Carolina may be just what the doctor ordered to help Michael Turner get back on his feet.
In fact, I'd argue that this is Turner's week. With both Roddy White and now Julio Jones hobbled with (hopefully) minor injuries, the Falcons will need all the offensive production they can muster. So without further ado, here are the week six numberFire.com fantasy projections for your Atlanta Falcons:
QB Matt Ryan: 14.80 points (19.82 completions, 238.20 yards, 1.56 TDs, 0.92 INTs)
WR Roddy White: 10.66 points (6.14 recs, 77.56 yards, 0.47 TDs)
WR Julio Jones: 7.48 points (4.63 recs, 69.53 yards, 0.09 TDs)
WR Harry Douglas: 2.83 points (1.56 recs, 21.11 yards, 0.12 TDs)
RB Michael Turner: 15.18 points (21.65 carries, 89.57 yards, 0.86 TDs)
TE Tony Gonzalez: 6.06 points (4.06 recs, 43.77 yards, 0.28 TDs)
K Matt Bryant: 8.84 points (1.67 FGs, 3.16 XP)
Atlanta D/ST: 7.48 points (22.40 points allowed, 2.06 sacks, 2.06 turnovers)
One player to watch: Harry Douglas
Mainly because of the injury to Julio Jones. We'll keep you updated as the week progresses, but for now I'd list Jones as "questionable", meaning no one has any clue if he will play. It's also worth noting, however, that even though he only had two catches for 18 yards, two plays of 20+ yards involving HD were called back due to either penalty or booth review. He could have a good game, especially is he starts.
For more, check SB Nation's Falcons blog The Falcoholic and Panthers blog Cat Scratch Reader