In my lifetime, I don’t know that I remember quite this much negativity swirling around Redskins Park at any given time. The Revolution has gained steam over the last week with drama over shirt/sign bans, mailed-in fan cards, organized protests, and John Riggins comments on HBO. As much as this all makes me want to crawl in a hole and wait out the rest of the season, we’ve got nine games left. Black heart or not, hit the jump for the low-down on the Dirty Birds of the A-T-L.

Atlanta has started the season with a bit of a letdown, considering that they were expected to compete for the NFC championship this season. Matty Ice, everyone’s favorite “clutch” quarterback this side of Doug Flutie has managed to puke on his own jersey the last few weeks. Ryan has thrown seven interceptions over the course of the last three weeks, with at least two in each game. The Falcons have gone 1-2 in that span, with the only win coming over the Bears at home. All things considered, Atlanta has played MUCH better in the Georgia Dome this season, piling up a 3-0 record (although they’ve only played Miami, Carolina and Chicago, none of which are world-beaters). Here are some key items for the game this week:

• The Redskins defense only allows 283.4 yards per game, good for 4th in the league. Atlanta’s offense gains 339.9. Look for big plays to allow Atlanta to gain a lead, because the Skins have been OK in avoiding long, methodical drives (at least until the fourth quarter).
• Both teams have made their money through the air this season, but the Skins have been much better about stopping the pass. If they expect to compete, it’s going to have to be on the arm of Campbell, not the legs of Portis.
• Watch Andre Carter and Brian Orakpo in this game. The Redskins are currently seventh in the league with 18 sacks while Atlanta has given up only nine (4th in the league). If the Redskins press to rush the passer, the Falcons have weapons that can beat them on the outside and over the middle. Tony Gonzales could have a big day if Orakpo struggles in coverage.
• Keep an eye on DeAngelo Hall’s reception from the Falcon Faithful. I guarantee he’s not the most popular guy down there.
• Field position will be key. The Skins have one of the worst turnover rates in the league, while the Falcons have been mistake prone the last several weeks. If the Redskins expect to win, they must force turnovers and control the field. Without Hunter Smith, and with Randle El STILL returning kicks, that could be a big problem.

Like most games this season, I’m having trouble seeing a silver lining in this matchup for the Skins. Atlanta has proven that they’re a tough draw at home, and they have a capable quarterback and offensive line. That paired with an anemic (at best) offense is a recipe for a road beating. I hate to be so pessimistic, but here it goes:

Redskins 10
Falcons 24

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