The Atlanta Falcons take their NFL-worst PYA into Oakland to face the JaMarcus Russell-led Raiders. Without RB Darren McFadden, expecting the Raiders to throw more frequently is not beyond the realm of reasonability. The question, as it seems to be every game, is whether JaMarcus Russell can take advantage of what he is given.
With a receiving corps that can only be considered "inconsistent" on its best days, Russell is at a disadvantage to most of his QB brethren. However, I won't be surprised to see Russell throw for 250+. Just guessing how that yardage will be distributed is tough.
If the Raiders are able to move the ball through the air, one would expect the Falcons to get the ball frequently enough to allow QB Matt Ryan and WR Roddy White to continue to take the NFL by storm. White has at least 90 yards receving in his past five games and at least one TD in four of those five. He has done this without the benefit of top second option.
Focusing on the passing opportunities for the Raiders and Falcons may be moot as neither team can stop the run. Will ground success by Michael Turner open up more opportunities for Ryan and White? Will Justin Fargas and Michael Bush keep JaMarcus Russell and co unexposed?
Other favorable starts that may not have occurred to you: St. Louis Rams' WR Donnie Avery, Chicago Bears' QB Kyle Orton, Denver Broncos' WR Eddie Royal
Ten Worst Pass Defenses:
| Rank | Team | PYA | Vs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32 | Atlanta | 275.3 | @OAK |
| 31 | Detroit | 271.7 | @CHI |
| 30 | Miami | 269.3 | @DEN |
| 29 | San Diego | 264.3 | BYE |
| 28 | Carolina | 258.7 | BYE |
| 27 | Seattle | 256.3 | PHI |
| 26 | Buffalo | 249 | NYJ |
| 25 | New England | 248 | @IND |
| 24 | Arizona | 247.3 | @STL |
| 23 | Baltimore | 244.3 | @CLE |