The Giants.com crew is presented with four statements and must decide whether they are Fact or Fiction.
WR Sterling Shepard will lead the team in receiving yards on Sunday.
John Schmeelk: Fiction - The chance Sterling Shepard leads the Giants in receiving for three straight weeks just doesn't seem high, although there's an argument to be made that he will. The Falcons play a lot of Cover 2 and there could be a lot of underneath routes available in the middle of the field. Instead, let's go for this as Kenny Golladay's breakout game. The deep in-cut in the middle of shell coverage is a valuable tool for beating it and something Golladay does very well. His size will also allow him to be a good target between the cornerbacks and safeties in Cover 2 along the sideline.
Dan Salomone: Fact – Shepard is tied for the NFL lead in receptions entering Week 3, and there's no reason he won't keep up the production. None of this comes as a surprise to people who followed along this summer. Shepard, the longest-tenured active Giants player, put together one of the best camps of his career and carried it over to the regular season.
Lance Medow: Fact - In Week 1 against the Falcons, Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith led his team in receiving yards and last week, Bucs wideout Mike Evans earned that honor, so this bodes well for Sterling Shepard. He and Daniel Jones have developed some chemistry over the first two games as Shepard has not only led the team in receiving yards in both contests but he's also been targeted a team-high 19 times. Kenny Golladay is an attractive option but with him nursing a hip injury entering this game, Shepard is by far the safer call.
Matt Citak: Fiction - After having what many considered to be his strongest training camp this summer, Shepard has been nothing short of amazing through the first two games. His 16 receptions entered Week 3 tied for the league lead and his 207 receiving yards is among the most in the NFL. You can expect another strong outing from Shepard, but Kenny Golladay will end up leading the team in receiving yards against the Falcons. Golladay has just seven receptions for 102 yards this season and has yet to find the end zone. But with Falcons top cornerback A.J. Terrell looking iffy to play after missing practice all week, Sunday's matchup could be Golladay's breakout game.
Daniel Jones will lead the team in rushing yards vs. Atlanta.
John Schmeelk: Fiction - Giants fans are going to be very happy after Sunday's game when not only Kenny Golladay has a breakout game, but Saquon Barkley does, too. Physically, Barkley looks close to his old self and every snap he takes he will get a better feel for running the ball behind this offensive line. The Falcons have struggled against the run this year, and with their two-safety umbrella coverage preference, Barkley should have some room to run.
Dan Salomone: Fiction – This has the potential to be Barkley's "I'm back" game. Atlanta struggled when it had to keep tabs on both the quarterback and running back on the ground against the Eagles in Week 1, and Jones and Barkley present the same problem this Sunday.
Lance Medow: Fact - Similar to Sterling Shepard leading the team in receiving yards in each of the first two games, Daniel Jones has done the same on the ground. The Falcons already faced a quarterback with the ability to run in the Eagles' Jalen Hurts, in Week 1, and he collected 62 rushing yards but finished second to running back Miles Sanders. Their struggles against Hurts will likely put themselves in a better position to defend and handle Jones but, at this point in the season, Jones is the biggest threat out of the Giants backfield. Atlanta did a pretty good job against the Bucs' run game, holding them to just 82 yards on 21 carries. With some big defensive lineman up front including Grady Jarrett and versatile linebackers such as Deion Jones and Foye Oluokun, let's lean toward Jones having the slight edge over Saquon Barkley.
Matt Citak: Fiction - It's only been two games, but it already looks like Jones is well on his way to breaking his previous season-high of 423 rushing yards set last year. The 24-year-old has already gained 122 yards on just 15 carries, good for the third-most among QBs (behind Lamar Jackson and Jalen Hurts). His 8.1 yards per carry is also the second-highest in the NFL among players with at least 15 attempts. Jones has been a force on the ground, but this week's matchup seems like the perfect game to get Saquon Barkley going. Atlanta entered Week 3 with the league's 24th ranked rush defense, surrendering 255 yards in the first two games. Barkley showed off his explosiveness last week with his 41-yard run against Washington, and going up against Atlanta's defensive front, the star back could reach the 100-yard rushing mark for the first time since Week 16 of the 2019 season.
View rare photos of the all-time series between the New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons.
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons defenders to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Larry Csonka (39) settles to earth atop Atlanta Falcons Ray Easterling after a 12-yard first quarter gain at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium for a first down, Sunday, Oct. 2, 1977 in Atlanta. Helping overcome Csonka are Falcon defenders Frank Reed (28), Fulton Kuykendall (54) and Ralph Ortega. (AP Photo)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Steve Bartkowski (10) is sacked by New York Giants end Dee Hardison, in Atlanta, Sept. 11, 1983. The four-yard loss came in the first quarter at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) puts the winning 3 points on the scoreboard as quarterback Scott Brunner (12) holds the ball with a 30-yard field goal in overtime to beat the Atlanta Falcons, 16-13, Sept. 11, 1983. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
New York Giants kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) leaps into the arms of quarterback Scott Brunner after kicking a 30-yard field goal to beat the Atlanta Falcons 16-13 at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium in sudden death overtime, Sept. 11, 1983. He kicked two other field goals and an extra point in their game. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
New York Giants' kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) is congratulated by teammates Brad Van Pelt (10), Kevin Belcher (73) and Scott Brunner (12) after kicking a 30-yard field goal to beat the Atlanta Falcons 16-13 in sudden death overtime, Sept. 12, 1983. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Danny Kanell (13) is brought down by New York Giants Cornelius Griffin (97) in the 4th quarter at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. The Giants downed the Falcons 13-6. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants' Ron Dayne (27) scores a first quarter touchdown with Atlanta Falcons Henri Crockett (94) in tow at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP PhotoCurtis Compton)
New York Giants' Ron Dayne (27) celebrates his first quarter touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants safety Lyle West (37) comes up with a punt return fumble in the first quarter as Atlanta Falcons' Winslow Oliver (26) comes up empty at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) looks down field under pressure from Atlanta Falcons' Patrick Kerney (97) during first half play at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta Sunday, Oct. 8, 2000. (AP Photo/Curtis Compton)
New York Giants cornerback Will Allen (25) tackles Atlanta Falcons running back Warrick Dunn (28) by the foot in the second quarter of the Falcons 27-7 win, Sunday, Nov. 9, 2003, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N. J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks for a receiver during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' quarterback Eli Manning (10) rolls out of a pocket avoiding a tackle by Atlanta Falcons' Brady Smith (91 during the third quarter of play on Sunday, November, 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. The Falcons beat the Giants 14-10. (AP Photo/Michael Kim)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning calls an audible during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons running back Maurice Smith (43) is hit by New York Giants defender Dewayne Patmon as he rushes in the second half in Atlanta Saturday, Aug. 17, 2002. The Falcons won 36-24. (AP Photo/Alan Mothner)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey catches a touchdown pass during the third quarter as he is surrounded by Atlanta Falcons' Chris Draft (54), Eric Johnson (56) and Cory Hall, right rear, Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Falcons beat the Giants, 14-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterbacks Kurt Warner (13) and Eli Manning talk with quarterbacks coach John Hufnagel, right, during the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning passes the ball as he is pressured by Atlanta Falcons defensive end Brady Smith (91) during the fourth quarter Sunday, Nov. 21, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Manning completed 17 of 37 attempts for 162 yards as the Falcons beat the Giants, 14-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) scores in the second half ahead of Atlanta Falcons linebacker Ike Reese (98) during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) jumps up to the fans after scoring a second half touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick (7) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) pose for a photograph at the end of the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) scrambles in the first half against the Atlanta Falcons during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/Ric Feld)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) runs in the second half under pressure from Atlanta Falcons end Paul Carrington (91) during the football game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., Sunday, Oct. 15, 2006. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants' R.W. McQuarters celebrates as he leaves the field after the Giants defeated the Atlanta Falcons 31-10 in a football game Monday, Oct. 15, 2007 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington, right, is sacked by New York Giants' Aaron Ross during the fourth quarter of a football game in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. Atlanta lost 31-10 and went to 1-5 for the season. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington is sacked by New York Giants' Antonio Pierce in the second quarter of a football game Monday, Oct. 15, 2007 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) carries the ball against Atlanta Falcons linebacker Michael Boley (59) during an NFL football game, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Brandon Jacobs #27 of the New York Giants runs for yardage against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. New York defeated Atlanta 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Brandon Jacobs #27 of the New York Giants runs for yardage against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
The offense of the Atlanta Falcons prepares to snap the ball at the line of scrimmage against the defense of the New York Giants on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants attempts to rush in against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants passes the football in the pocket against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Defensive back Aaron Ross #31 of the New York Giants jumps in the air as he intercepts the football against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Shaun O'Hara #60 of the New York Giants calls out blocking assignments against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce (58), tackles Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington (13) and defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during an NFL football game, in Atlanta, Monday, Oct. 15, 2007. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Amani Toomer #81 of the New York Giants scores on a touchdown reception during 1st-quarter action against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Amani Toomer #81 of the New York Giants runs with a reception against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 15: Defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants runs in pursuit against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Jeremy Shockey of the New York Giants runs with a reception against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Aaron Ross #31 and Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants sack Joey Harrington #13 of the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants celebrates after making a tackle against the Atlanta Falcons on October 15, 2007 in Atlanta, Ga. The Giants defeated the Falcons 31-10. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89) moves past Atlanta Falcons safety Thomas DeCoud (28) for a touchdown during the second quarter of the NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), right, looks around the field during the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates with center Shaun O'Hara (60) after throwing a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won in overtime, 34-31. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89) runs the ball during the second quarter of the NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Atlanta Falcons center Bryan Pittman (48) greets New York Giants linebacker Zak DeOssie (51) before the start of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) gets a first down past Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) during overtime of the NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87), second from left, tries to outrun Atlanta Falcons linebacker Curtis Lofton, left, Atlanta Falcons safety Thomas DeCoud (28) and Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes (20), right, during the first quarter of the NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Michael Jenkins (12) can't hold on onto the ball over New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster (23) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss (89), second from left, celebrates his second touchdown with New York Giants running back Danny Ware (28), left, during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, center, fumbles the ball as he is hit by New York Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield (96) and defensive end Justin Tuck (91) in the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants recovered the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scores a touchdown past Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws under pressure from New York Giants defensive tackle Fred Robbins (98) and New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) picks up a first down while being tackled by Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman, bottom left, and cornerback Brent Grimes (20) in the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) signals first down against the Atlanta Falcons during a NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday November 22, 2009
(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) fumbles the ball while being pressured by New York Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield (96), top, and New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) is pushed out of bounds by Atlanta Falcons safety Erik Coleman (26) after gaining a first down in overtime of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) pulls down a four yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants guard David Diehl (66) hugs Eli Manning after his 27-yard touchdown pass to Mario Manningham during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Fans cheer as New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) runs into the end zone to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. right is Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Atlanta Falcons free safety Thomas DeCoud (28) tries to stop New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw on a 30-yard run during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) celebrates his 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons with teammate Hakeem Nicks during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) pulls in a 27-yard touchdown pass against Atlanta Falcons strong safety James Sanders (36) and Dunta Robinson during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning looks as he takes the ball on a running play against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks indicates a first down after a 19-yard reception against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) pass against defender Atlanta Falcons defensive end Kroy Biermann (71) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning scrambles to pass during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons defenders to score on a 72-yard touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, right, breaks away from Atlanta Falcons safety William Moore during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) evades a tackle by Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dominique Franks (24) during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) is chased by Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Sean Weatherspoon (56) during the first half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks celebrates after scoring on a 72-yard touchdown pass against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL wild card playoff football game Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, chats with Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan after their NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora celebrates after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning runs off the field after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) and teammate Justin Tuck run off the field after an NFL wild card playoff football game against the Atlanta Falcons Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) catches the ball as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson defends during the first half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) speaks to Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning runs off the field after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 30-20 in an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins (95) sacks Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin, left, and Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith talk at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (21) deflects a pass intended for Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Andre Williams (44) celebrates after scoring on a touchdown run against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, bottom, lays on the grass after being sacked by New York Giants defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins (95), partially obscured, during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, left, talks to New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) avoids a tackle by Atlanta Falcons defensive back Kemal Ishmael during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a catch during a week 5 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on October 5, 2014 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) avoids the tackle of Atlanta Falcons defensive end Malliciah Goodman (93) while throwing a pass during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) during a week 5 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on October 5, 2014 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) talks to New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning at the end of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-20. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Shane Vereen (34) breaks away from Atlanta Falcons safety Ricardo Allen (37) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell, left, makes a touchdown catch on a pass from quarterback Eli Manning, not pictured, as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford defends during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Atlanta Falcons during a week 2 NFL football game on September 20, 2015 at Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey ( Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks to his line during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) runs against Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Joplo Bartu (59) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) jumps in the air to catch the football as Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford (23) defends during an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the football as he jumps in the air while Atlanta Falcons strong safety Damontae Kazee (27) dives to tackle during an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) makes a reception against Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert Alford (23) during an NFL football game, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter (59) during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) carries the ball after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants offensive guard Will Hernandez (71) and offensive tackle Nate Solder (76) block during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
The Atlanta Falcons offensive line lines up across the New York Giants defensive line during a week 7 NFL football game on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) carries the ball after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, October 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Falcons won 23-20. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs after the catch during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) blocks Atlanta Falcons defensive end Takkarist McKinley (98) during a week 7 NFL football game on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) runs out of the pocket against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) speaks with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) after an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons won 23-20. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) works against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants offensive tackle Nate Solder (76) and tight end Evan Engram (88) line up on the line of scrimmage during a week 7 NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 in Atlanta. Atlanta 23-20. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) gets by Atlanta Falcons strong safety Damontae Kazee (27) during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) works against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter, left, prepares to sack Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Rookie Azeez Ojulari will extend his franchise record to three consecutive games with a sack to start a career (since the stat became official).
John Schmeelk: Fiction – Let's play the odds here, although it's also a favorable matchup against Falcons right tackle Kaleb McGary, who has allowed a sack, a pair of quarterback hits and five hurries this season, according to Pro Football Focus. The problem is that Matt Ryan is getting rid of the ball ridiculously quickly. He has the league's eighth-quickest average time to throw (2.54 seconds) and the second-lowest average depth of target for quarterbacks with at least 25 dropbacks (5.1 yards). Giants pass rushers might not have time to get to the quarterback. Ojulari might have some wins against McGary, but may not have the opportunity to get home. It could be a big game for interior rushers, Leonard Williams and Dexter Lawrence.
Dan Salomone: Fact – Throughout the summer, you got the sense that Ojulari was going to be a gamer. He has proved that by becoming the first player in franchise history to have a full sack in each of his first two career games. But don't get hung up on the pressure stats. Assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Patrick Graham said he's been most impressed by the second-round pick's stout run defense.
Lance Medow: Fiction - Matt Ryan has been sacked four times in the first two games combined but just once last week against the Bucs. With a great deal of youth on the Atlanta offensive line, Ryan and Co. have been relying on short, quick passes and hoping for yardage after the catch as opposed to having Ryan hold onto the ball longer in hopes of a deeper completion. Giants defensive coordinator Patrick Graham also mentioned that Ojulari has been solid against the run iand deserves a lot of credit for that facet of his game, which is probably more important than his ability to record a sack.
Matt Citak: Fact – If he can pick up another sack against the Falcons, Ojulari will become just the fifth player since 2000 with one in each of his first three NFL games. Atlanta's offensive line has surrendered four sacks and 16 quarterback hits through the first two weeks. The unit has allowed Matt Ryan to be pressured on 36.8 percent of his drop backs, according to Pro Football Focus, and ranks 27th in overall and pass-blocking PFF grades. With Atlanta's struggles to keep Ryan upright, Ojulari will pick up sack number three this Sunday.
TE Kyle Pitts is the most dangerous player on the Falcons.
John Schmeelk: Fact - An argument can be made for Calvin Ridley, but as the team's only truly dangerous wide receiver it should be a simpler task to focus extra attention on him than Kyle Pitts. Pitts has been lined up all over the formation (35 times in-line, 47 times in the slot, and 28 times wide) and is too fast for linebackers and safeties (4.44 speed) and too big for cornerbacks (6'6 240 lbs). He is not just a possession receiver, either. If he gets the ball in space, look out. He had five catches for 73 yards last week and has not had his breakout performance yet.
Honorable mention to Cordarrelle Patterson. Like Pitts, he has been used in a variety of positions – the rookie's been lined up in the backfield 34 times, in the slot five times, as a wide receiver nine times, and in-line three times. He is strong enough to break tackles and fast enough to run away from defensive backs. He will also be used in the return game. He is a gamebreaker.
Dan Salomone: Fiction – Every team has playmakers that you have to worry about like Calvin Ridley and Kyle Pitts, but some teams have certain guys who simply keep opposing coaches up at night. Cordarrelle Patterson is one of them. He's a 6-foot-2, 220-pound triple threat in the run, pass, and return games.
Lance Medow: Fact - There's several strong candidates to choose from, including wide receiver Cameron Ridley and running back/wideout/return man Cordarrelle Patterson, who has been quite an X-factor this season. You can easily make a case for those two players, but Kyle Pitts is more dangerous because of his unique build and skillset. At 6-6, 246, he has the length and size to assist at the line of scrimmage but also the speed to wreak havoc down the field. That's why very few players have the ability to match up with him. He's got a tight end label but wide receiver characteristics. The Falcons have also been moving him around, making him even more unpredictable.
Matt Citak: Fiction – This one was close. There is a reason why Pitts was considered a unicorn during this year's draft process, as you don't see many 6-foot-6 tight ends with his athleticism in the NFL. Although Pitts is a challenging matchup for any defense, let's give a (very) slight edge to Calvin Ridley. Ridley was one of the top wide receivers in the NFL last season, catching 90 passes for 1,374 yards (tied for fifth in the league) and nine touchdowns. The 26-year-old is looking for his 10th straight game with 5+ receptions for 50+ receiving yards in Week 3, and just caught seven passes for 63 yards and a score against Tampa Bay's tough defense last week. Ridley is likely to see a lot of James Bradberry on Sunday, which should be an intriguing matchup between one of the league's top corners and top receivers.
View photos of the Atlanta Falcons starters ahead of the Week 3 matchup against the Giants.
HC Arthur Smith
OC Dave Ragone
DC Dean Pees
STC Marquice Williams
QB Matt Ryan
RB Mike Davis
WR Calvin Ridley
WR Russell Gage
TE Kyle Pitts
TE Hayden Hurst
LT Jake Matthews
LG Jalen Mayfield
C Matt Hennessy
RG Chris Lindstrom
RT Kaleb McGary
DL Grady Jarrett
DL Tyeler Davison
DL Jonathan Bullard
OLB Steven Means
LB Deion Jones
LB Foyesade Oluokun
OLB Dante Fowler Jr.
CB A.J. Terrell
S Erik Harris
S Duron Harmon
CB Fabian Moreau
K Younghoe Koo
P Cameron Nizialek
LS Josh Harris
H Cameron Nziaklek
PR Avery Williams
KR Cordarrelle Patterson
First 25,000 fans will receive an Eli Manning bobblehead
The first 25,000 fans in attendance at Sunday's game against Atlanta will receive an Eli Manning bobblehead.
