The Falcons have more expectations in 2023 than ever before under the current regime. With a boatload of cap space, the front office dramatically improved the roster. Now, it’s put up or shut up time.
I thought it was an excellent opportunity to discuss the most anticipated games for the 2023 season. It was Josh Kendall of The Athletic who gave me this idea, but their ‘must-watch’ contest is a meeting of old friends:
Atlanta Falcons: at Titans, Week 8
Coach Arthur Smith cut his teeth under Tennessee coach Mike Vrabel and thinks so much of the Vrabel family that one of Mike’s sons, offensive lineman Tyler Vrabel, is on Atlanta’s 90-man roster. Don’t expect this game to be flexed into any of the weekend’s premium time slots, but people who like physical football will want to tune in, if for no other reason than it might set the season record for the most combined rushing attempts in a game. — Josh Kendall
Though that will be exciting because of the connection between Arthur Smith and Mike Vrabel, I have a couple of other contests that Falcons fans should also circle and potentially consider attending in person.
Week 1: Carolina Panthers — September 10th
This one feels like cheating, but after going to the season opener last year against the Saints, I recommend Falcons fans try to go to this one. Firstly, Mercedes-Benz Stadium has been a terrible home environment for years now, but last year’s season opener was electric. I don’t know if it will remain throughout the season; it will be alive on September 10, though. Moreover, Bryce Young’s first game will be must-watch TV.
Week 4: @ Jacksonville Jaguars (London) — October 1stÂ
I have several friends making an entire European trip built around this contest in London. If you’re able to visit a different country while catching your Falcons, you should do it. Moreover, the Jaguars aren’t your father’s Jaguars; they’re a legit franchise with Super Bowl aspirations led by Trevor Lawrence and new head coach Doug Pederson.
Week 13: @ New York Jets — December 3rd
Metlife Stadium might not be the newest and most shiny stadium, but it’s got character and a ton of history. With Aaron Rodgers and one of the best defenses in football, the Falcons-Jets contest will be one of the better Week 13 games.
Week 16: Indianapolis Colts — December 24th
Christmas Eve in Atlanta? The Falcons will host the Colts, who are expected to rebuild around the ultra-talented Anthony Richardson. Described as a combination of Lamar Jackson and Cam Newton, AR15 might be the next coming of Mike Vick. Falcons fans should spend some time with their families during the holidays, but if the family loves football, where better to celebrate than in Mercedes-Benz Stadium?
Week 18: @ New Orleans Saints — TBD
This is BY FAR the most highly anticipated contest of the 2023 season. First off, the Falcons have NEVER played a season finale in New Orleans before. Secondly, this is one of the best rivalries in the sport. Thirdly, this Week 18 matchup could very well decide the winner of the division and who will host a playoff game. The Falcons haven’t hosted a postseason game since 2016 and would put the new regime on the map. This has a great chance of being flexed to a primetime slot, which could be the only one of the Falcons’ season.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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