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Falcons Seek Playoff Lifeline vs. Struggling Raiders

The fans at Allegiant Stadium will be treated to a game between the Falcons and the Raiders when they take their seats.

(Photo by Getty Images) Kirk Cousins

Atlanta (6-7-0) at Las Vegas (2-11-0)

  • When: Dec 16 2024, 8:30 PM
  • Where: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV
  • Where to watch: ESPN

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Atlanta Falcons @ Las Vegas Raiders
Moneyline

Atlanta Falcons   -275
Las Vegas Raiders   +225

Atlanta Falcons @ Las Vegas Raiders
Point Spread

Atlanta Falcons   -6.0 (-110)
Las Vegas Raiders   6.0 (-110)

Atlanta Falcons @ Las Vegas Raiders
Total

Over   44.5 (-110)
Under   44.5 (-110)

Key Players:
Atlanta: Kirk Cousins
Las Vegas: Desmond Ridder

Team Stats

Falcons   Raiders
6-7 Record 2-11
3-3 Away & Home 1-4
5-8-0 ATS 5-8-0
5-7-1 O/U 8-5-0

Last Matchup:
ATL 43-6, November 29th, 2020

Game Preview

The Atlanta Falcons desperately need a turnaround as they visit the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday night. Both teams are struggling for different reasons, but this matchup offers bettors intriguing angles, especially with playoff implications on the line for Atlanta.

Falcons’ Struggles

The Falcons (6-7) are sliding, having lost four consecutive games to fall behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC South. Kirk Cousins’ recent performances are a significant factor, as the veteran quarterback has thrown eight interceptions and zero touchdowns during the losing streak, including six picks in the past two games.

Atlanta’s offense has averaged just 14.3 points over their losing stretch, leading to calls for rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. to take over under center. However, head coach Raheem Morris remains steadfast in his support of Cousins.

“You don’t just jump ship when things get tough,” Morris said. “Kirk has shown he can win games, and I believe he will bounce back.”

Despite the struggles, Cousins has the experience and motivation to guide Atlanta to their sixth consecutive win over the Raiders. Bettors may look at this as a potential “buy-low” spot for the Falcons, who are favored on the road but haven’t inspired confidence recently.

Raiders’ Quarterback Questions

Las Vegas (2-11) has endured a disastrous season, losing nine straight games since their last victory on Sept. 29. To make matters worse, quarterback Aidan O’Connell is questionable after suffering a bone bruise in his left knee during last week’s loss to Tampa Bay.

If O’Connell can’t go, the Raiders will turn to Desmond Ridder, a familiar name for Atlanta fans. Ridder, who started 13 games for the Falcons over the past two seasons, is eager to prove himself as a viable NFL quarterback.

“Every opportunity is an audition,” Ridder said. “Whether it’s the Falcons or anyone else, I’m just excited to compete.”

This uncertainty under center makes the Raiders a risky bet, especially against a Falcons defense that can capitalize on turnovers.

Key Matchups

– Atlanta Offense vs. Raiders Defense: The Falcons must rely on running back Bijan Robinson to establish the ground game against a Raiders defense that ranks near the bottom of the league. Kirk Cousins needs a mistake-free performance to keep Atlanta in the playoff race.

– Raiders Offense vs. Falcons Defense: If O’Connell can play, he’ll face a Falcons secondary that has been opportunistic this season. If Ridder starts, expect a conservative game plan focused on avoiding turnovers.

Betting Trends

– The Falcons are 0-4 ATS in their last four games, but they are 5-0 ATS in their last five meetings with the Raiders.

– The Raiders are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games at home.

– The total has gone under in five of the Raiders’ last six games.

Prediction

The Falcons’ recent struggles make them a risky bet, but the Raiders’ instability at quarterback tilts the edge toward Atlanta. Look for Bijan Robinson to have a big day on the ground, and for Atlanta’s defense to limit Las Vegas’ offensive production.

This game offers value for bettors looking to capitalize on Atlanta’s need for a bounce-back performance and Las Vegas’ ongoing quarterback uncertainty.

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NFL Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Atlanta 23-16
Expert Pick: Atlanta -6 & Under 44½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $300

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