NW Atlanta News

The Atlanta Falcons are preparing to host the Dallas Cowboys this weekend, with both teams facing significant moments in their seasons. The Falcons, standing at 5-3 and undefeated in the NFC South division, aim to secure another victory after defeating the Buccaneers last Sunday. The Cowboys hold a 3-4 record and are third in the NFC East.

Injury concerns loom for both teams. For the Falcons, center Drew Dalman may return from injured reserve after an ankle injury sustained in Week 3 against Kansas City Chiefs. Ryan Neuzil has been filling his position reliably. Inside linebacker Troy Andersen and right guard Chris Lindstrom are listed as questionable due to knee injuries. Head coach Raheem Morris described Andersen as "day-to-day" and mentioned that Lindstrom was cleared but kept out of last Sunday's game as a precaution.

On the Cowboys' side, key defensive player Micah Parsons will miss another game due to a high-ankle sprain suffered in Week 4. Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed Parsons is "not quite there yet." Additionally, cornerbacks DaRon Bland and Trevon Diggs have not practiced; Bland is ruled out while Diggs remains a game-time decision.

The Falcons' offense showed improvement last week against Tampa Bay, with quarterback Kirk Cousins throwing four touchdowns. Through Week 8, Atlanta boasts top performers like Kirk Cousins among passers, Bijan Robinson among rushers, and receivers Drake London and Darnell Mooney.

Despite these offensive strengths, Atlanta's pass rush remains an issue. They rank low in sacks and pressure rates this season but might find opportunities against Dak Prescott's lower rushing average compared to previous years.

The Cowboys struggle offensively on first downs with a league-worst success rate of 32.5%, partly due to inconsistent run production since 2016. This could benefit the Falcons defense by creating longer third-down situations.

Drake London is highlighted as a potential standout player for this matchup based on recent performances and leadership qualities noted by Coach Morris following their loss to Seattle.