The Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas is set to host an electrifying Monday Night Football showdown between the Atlanta Falcons and the Las Vegas Raiders on December 16, 2024, at 8:30 pm ET. With both teams coming off disappointing losses, this game promises to be a crucial turning point in their respective seasons. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN.
Opening Odds at USA Sportsbooks
The betting landscape for this matchup is intriguing. According to DraftKings, the Falcons are favored by 4 points, with the over/under set at 44 points. Bet365 offers a similar line, but with a slightly higher over/under at 44.5 points. BetMGM aligns with DraftKings, maintaining the Falcons as 4-point favorites and the total at 44 points. These odds reflect the current form and expectations for both teams as they head into this pivotal clash.
Season Record
The Atlanta Falcons are navigating a challenging season with a 6-7 record, placing them second in the NFC South. Despite their struggles, they remain in contention for the division title, trailing the Buccaneers by just one game. In contrast, the Las Vegas Raiders are enduring a tough campaign, sitting at the bottom of the AFC West with a 2-11 record. Their season has been marred by inconsistency and injuries, leaving them with one of the worst records in the NFL.
Recent Form
Both teams are coming off significant losses. The Falcons fell to the Minnesota Vikings 42-21, with Kirk Cousins struggling to find his rhythm, completing 23 of 37 passes for 344 yards and two interceptions. Bijan Robinson was a bright spot, rushing for 92 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, the Raiders suffered a 28-13 defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Aidan O’Connell started at quarterback but was replaced by Desmond Ridder due to injury. The team struggled to find offensive momentum, with Sincere McCormick leading the rushing attack with 78 yards.
Atlanta Falcons vs Las Vegas Raiders Preview and Analysis
The Falcons have shown flashes of brilliance this season, particularly in their divisional games, where they boast a 4-1 record. However, their overall inconsistency, especially in recent weeks, has cost them the division lead. The Raiders, on the other hand, have been plagued by injuries and poor performances, particularly on defense. With Desmond Ridder likely starting at quarterback, the Raiders face an uphill battle against a Falcons team eager to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Falcons vs Raiders Prediction
Given the current form and stakes, the Falcons are expected to cover the spread as 4-point favorites. Atlanta’s need to bounce back and remain in the division race provides them with added motivation. Meanwhile, the Raiders are looking towards next season, with their focus shifting away from immediate results. Our prediction for this matchup is a 24-10 victory for the Falcons, as they look to capitalize on the Raiders’ vulnerabilities.
NFL Betting Trends
Analyzing the betting trends, the Falcons have struggled against the AFC West, going 0-4 ATS. They are also 3-11 ATS in non-conference games and 1-5 ATS after a significant loss. However, they have been strong in games going under the total, with a 28-19 record. The Raiders, conversely, have been more successful ATS at home when the total is between 42.5 and 49 points, boasting a 5-2 record. They also perform well ATS against teams with poor defenses.
Key Injuries
Injuries could play a significant role in this game. The Falcons are dealing with several key injuries, including Matthew Judon (OLB), Jessie Bates (SAF), and Darnell Mooney (WR). The Raiders are also facing a slew of injuries, with Aidan O’Connell (QB) and Maxx Crosby (DE) among the notable absentees. These injuries could impact the dynamics of the game and influence the outcome.
Notable Quotes
After their recent loss, Falcons coach Raheem Morris emphasized the need to eliminate self-inflicted errors, stating, “You just can’t have the self-inflicted wounds and expect to win football games.” Raiders coach Antonio Pierce praised his team’s resilience despite their struggles, saying, “I appreciate the effort, the grit, the fight. These guys are not flinching or blinking.”
Starting Lineups
For the Falcons, key players include Kirk Cousins at quarterback, with Bijan Robinson leading the rushing attack and Darnell Mooney as a primary receiving threat. The Raiders will rely on Desmond Ridder at quarterback, with Sincere McCormick expected to shoulder the rushing duties and Brock Bowers as a key target in the passing game.
Statistical Leaders
Kirk Cousins leads the Falcons in passing yards with 3,396, while Bijan Robinson is the top rusher with 977 yards. Darnell Mooney has been the standout receiver with 873 yards. For the Raiders, Gardner Minshew has thrown for 2,013 yards, with Alexander Mattison leading in rushing yards at 320. Brock Bowers has been a reliable receiving option, amassing 933 yards.
As the Falcons and Raiders prepare to face off, the stakes are high for both teams. While the Falcons aim to keep their playoff hopes alive, the Raiders are looking to salvage some pride in a challenging season. This matchup promises to be an exciting contest, with plenty of action for NFL fans and bettors alike.
