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Pro Football Focus writes that Atlanta Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez going up against an underwhelming Oakland Raiders secondary and linebacker corps will be a matchup to watch when the two teams square off Sunday afternoon in the Georgia Dome.
Gonzalez' 39 receptions are the most in the NFL through five weeks of the 2012 NFL season. He's also forced 10 missed tackles, most of any tight end in the NFL, and his four touchdown receptions are tied for the most of anyone at his position.
However, Raiders safety Tyvon Branch, who shut down New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski last season, could be the guy to contain Gonzalez.
Branch hasn't allowed more than 28 yards to an opposing tight end this season, so the Raiders would be wise to get him on Gonzalez as often as they can spare a safety to one-on-one coverage. Otherwise, it could be up to linebackers Rolando McClain and Philip Wheeler, who have been less than stellar against tight ends this season.