NE Atlanta News

The Atlanta Falcons are set to host the Seattle Seahawks in Week 7 of the NFL season, with both teams experiencing contrasting fortunes. The Falcons are on a three-game winning streak, all against NFC South opponents, while the Seahawks have lost their last three games after starting the season with three wins.

Injury concerns loom for both teams. The Falcons will be without linebackers Troy Andersen and Lorenzo Carter. Andersen is sidelined due to a knee injury sustained in Week 4, while Carter is in concussion protocol. Safety Justin Simmons is questionable with a hamstring issue but practiced in a limited capacity this week. If Simmons is unavailable, Richie Grant may step into the lineup.

Seattle's secondary faces challenges as cornerbacks Tre Brown and Riq Woolen deal with ankle injuries, and safety Jerrick Reed II is out with a knee injury. Former starting safety Rayshawn Jenkins was placed on injured reserve this week.

The Falcons' recent strategy has been to adapt based on defensive setups, as seen in their last two games against Tampa Bay and Carolina. With Seattle's run defense struggling, allowing an average of five yards per play on the ground, Atlanta may focus on its rushing attack led by Tyler Allgeier and Bijan Robinson.

On defense, the Falcons aim to pressure Seattle quarterback Geno Smith, who excels when given time but struggles under pressure. Notably, Seattle will start rookie Mike Jerrell at right tackle due to injuries.

Despite their recent losses, Seattle's passing game remains strong with Smith leading the league in passing yards and attempts. Wide receivers D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett continue to be key targets.

For Atlanta's offense, wide receiver Drake London could have another productive day against a weakened Seahawks secondary. London has been consistently targeted by quarterback Kirk Cousins and poses a significant threat from the slot position.

The matchup between these two teams will test whether Atlanta can exploit Seattle's defensive vulnerabilities or if Seattle can capitalize on its offensive strengths despite missing key players in its secondary.