Atlanta set for a positive display in New Orleans

Sky Sports Action, 1.20am Thursday night

Two straight defeats mean Atlanta are desperate to claim a victory at New Orleans to give themselves any sort of chance to extend their season.

The problem is that the Saints have won each of their last nine matches and rightly have Super Bowl ambitions. They are the only team to beat the Los Angeles Rams, who are joint-favourites with them to claim the Vince Lombardi trophy.

Sean Payton's side have averaged a league-high of 37.8 points per game and put in one of their most dominant performances of the season in Sunday's 48-7 success over Philadelphia.

With quarterback Drew Brees showing no signs of slowing down as his 40th birthday approaches and the rushing attack also flying, it is no surprise that expectations are high.

But although the defence have conceded a total of 21 points in their last two games, every one of the Saints' previous eight opponents scored at least 18 against them.

The Falcons' need for points and their offensive ability under the guidance of quarterback Matt Ryan means they can post a few points.

Covering a hefty handicap may be difficult if the Saints get in the mood, but a total of more than 23 points should not be beyond Atlanta.

Recommendation
Over 23 Atlanta points
2pts 10-11 Ladbrokes

The lowdown
Venue Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana
Surface Artificial
Weather Indoors
Vegas handicap Atlanta +13
Vegas points line 60

Team news
Atlanta
Wide receiver Calvin Ridley has been struggling with a thigh injury while safety Damontae Kazee is nursing shoulder and elbow injuries.

New Orleans
Offensive tackle Terron Armstead is out while wide receiver Tre'Quan Smith is hoping to recover from a foot injury.

Key stat
Atlanta have won eight of their last 25 matches against New Orleans.

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