Falcons open as 2.5-point road favorites against the Jets

Atlanta looks to build on its win over the Saints.

The NFC South-leading Atlanta Falcons head up to New Jersey to take on the New York Jets, a game where they’re favored by 2.5 points in the opening line, per DraftKings Sportsbook.

The Falcons are fresh off of a 25-14 win over the rival Saints, a game where Atlanta accumulated 228 yards on the ground and the defense forced two takeaways — including a Jessie Bates pick-six that went for 92 yards. Despite a middling passing game, the Falcons leaned on Bijan Robinson & Co. to grind down the New Orleans defense to regain its advantage in the division.

New York is mired in a four-game losing streak, having recently been mollywhopped by the Miami Dolphins 34-13. Backup quarterback Tim Boyle did not enjoy himself on Black Friday, completing 27 passes for a mere 179 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions.

This was Boyle’s first start since quarterback Zach Wilson was benched against the Bills.

If Atlanta’s defense plays to its level against New York, Boyle could be in for another long afternoon. This will be the Falcons’ first meeting against the Jets since 2021, a game where Atlanta came away with a 27-20 win.