Atlanta Falcons
If Julio Jones were healthy for this contest, then there’s no chance I’m betting against the Falcons in this one. However, being that he’s not healthy, dealing with a toe injury, along with a tenuous hamstring, this is far from a lock even if Atlanta is being favored to win by five over the Houston Texans.
Arian Foster has looked “good” in practice and he could return to the starting lineup after missing the first three games with a groin injury. His presence all by itself gives Houston a better chance to win, as his ability to soften opposing defensive fronts allows the passing game to open up. On that front, quarterback Ryan Mallett is developing a rapport with DeAndre Hopkins, who is becoming one of the league’s top young receivers.
To be fair, Houston’s no lock to win this one on the road. Atlanta’s defense is much improved under new head coach Dan Quinn. That said, the return of Foster, combined with a gimpy Jones for the Falcons — along with an always dangerous J.J. Watt and his pal Jadeveon Clowney — could result in the first loss of the season for the rookie head coach.