Injuries are something the Atlanta Falcons have become accustomed to during the 2011 season. Thus far starting center Todd McClure has missed games, defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux has been banged up, and last week Jason Snelling was out with a concussion. This Wednesday's injury report was no different as a variety of players missed practice today.
PLAYER
10/5/11
10/6/11
10/7/11
LB Stephen Nicholas (calf)
LP
DT Jonathan Babineaux (knee)
LP
C Todd McClure (knee)
DNP
WR Roddy White (thigh)
DNP
RB Jason Snelling (concussion)
LP
S William Moore (neck)
LP
CB Chris Owens (ankle)
LP
DE Cliff Matthews (knee)
DNP
TE Michael Palmer (ankle)
DNP
Roddy White is making his typical Wednesday appearance on the injury report, but again it's Todd McClure who represents the biggest loss for the Falcons. Thus far replacement Joe Hawley has been mediocre at best, and with the prospect of facing the Packers defense is around the corner they'll need to ensure everyone is ready to play. Hopefully later this week we'll see McClure's condition improve.
Meanwhile Green Bay are really hurting following their win over Denver.
PLAYER
10/5/11
10/6/11
10/7/11
T Bryan Bulaga (knee)
DNP
T Chad Clifton (knee)
LP
S Nick Collins (neck)
DNP
WR Donald Driver (shin)
DNP
RB Ryan Grant (kidney)
FP
LB Brad Jones (hamstring)
LP
LB Jamari Lattimore (shoulder)
LP
CB Pat Lee (back)
LP
LB Clay Matthews (quadricep)
DNP
DE Mike Neal (knee)
DNP
TE Andrew Quarless (knee)
DNP
TE Ryan Taylor (shoulder)
LP
CB Tramon Williams (shoulder)
LP
CB Charles Woodson (foot/knee)
DNP
LB Frank Zombo (shoulder)
LP
We're not just talking players here, we're talking big name superstars. Reports are saying Donald Driver will be out this weekend after struggling with a chronic knee injury, and Nick Collins won't play either after sustaining a neck injury week two vs. Carolina. The offensive line looks to be much weaker without Bryan Bulaga who looks to be out, however arguably the two most important names on this list Clay Matthews and Charles Woodson both appear to be playing on Sunday, but if they are still missing practice this could be a concern.
From an injury perspective the stars are aligning for Atlanta. While they have a few injuries themselves they're nothing compared to the players the Packers could be without on Sunday. If there was a time to capitalize on a weakened opponent this is it.
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