On paper, the Patriots are catching the Atlanta Falcons at an extremely advantageous time heading into Thursday night’s Week 11 matchup.
Quarterback Matt Ryan and the Falcons offense could be severely undermanned coming into this game, with top wide receiver Calvin Ridley out indefinitely and running back/receiver extraordinaire Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle) a game-time decision.
Last week’s 43-3 loss to the Dallas Cowboys showed how Atlanta’s offensive struggles can put added pressure on a defense that can’t stop anyone through the air, which is something New England will likely try to take advantage of.
Still, the mental and physical grind of a short week can lead to some unexpected results on Thursday nights, and the Patriots will have to maintain their focus against the players Atlanta still has left.