For the record: 6-3. The Falcons are tied with Tampa Bay for second in the NFC South, one game behind Carolina.
Last game: Beat New Orleans 34-20 at the Georgia Dome.
Who’s hot: Falcons’ secondary. The group knocked down 15 passes Sunday against the Saints and intercepted New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees three times.
Who’s not: The pass rush, except John Abraham. Abraham, a defensive end, has 11 sacks. The rest of the team has only six.
Key stat: Running back Michael Turner has 890 rushing yards this season, third-best in the NFL. He is averaging 4.4 yards per carry and has fumbled only once.
FYI: The Falcons are undefeated at home this season and have trailed for only 11 seconds in those four games.
Coach speak: “Our quarterback is maturing each game. As long as he can continue to develop, we can continue to add to what we do offensively.” — Atlanta coach Mike Smith, on rookie quarterback Matt Ryan
Lindsay H. Jones, The Denver Post
