Raiders vs. Falcons: Oakland's Darrius Heyward-Bey poses a threat

Atlanta Falcons coach Mike Smith addressed the media after practice Wednesday to discuss his team's upcoming matchup with the Oakland Raiders. Among the topics addressed was Raiders wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey; Smith said the Falcons are aware of Heyward-Bey's speed and will do everything they can to keep him in front of them:

"He can flat run. He's probably one of the faster guys in the NFL. Track speed at the combine. He can go. I think he's catching the ball. I know he's missed some time this year with some injuries, but you've got to make sure he doesn't get behind you and Carson can get the ball down the field."

Heyward-Bey has been on the mend from a concussion suffered in Week 3 and was able to fully participate in practice on Wednesday.

Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson, who would help in coverage against Heyward-Bey, is dealing with a shoulder injury this week. Coach Smith said Robinson could fully participate in practice on Thursday, which would put Robinson in good shape to play this weekend.

The Atlanta Falcons are off to a franchise-best 5-0 start to the season and they are in firm control of the NFC South. The Raiders come into Week 6 off a bye; their last game was a 37-6 defeat at the hands of the Denver Broncos.