Tampa Bay is obviously not comparable to Detroit defensively as the Bucs ranked third in the league in 2007 for points allowed. However, their d is not specialized at stopping the run as they ranked 17th in yards allowed on the ground last year. Linebacker Derrick Brooks is questionable for Sunday’s game. Atlanta will have a simple strategy to overcome Tampa’s defense; run the ball. Don’t expect the Falcons to have another game with over 300 yards rushing, but they will yield enough success to maintain possession the majority of the game and put some points on the board.

Atlanta’s main weakness is its defense. They were ranked 29th in yards and points allowed in 2007. If Tampa is going to win this game, they are going to have to put points on the board because Atlanta will have success offensively through its solid running game. Not only will they have to generate offense but also they will have to do it with backup QB Brian Griese since Jeff Garcia who is out for week 2.

This will be a hard fought game that may be won in the final minutes. Anytime the idea of a close game comes to mind it is always a good idea to look at the underdog as they give you bonus points since you can still win your bet, even if the team loses. Atlanta is a 7 point underdog. The reason that Tampa is favored by 7 is because the Bucs were 6-2 against the spread at home last year, including a 37-3 blowout against the Falcons in week 15, before losing to the Giants in the playoffs. The Falcons are a much better team now and the Bucs are missing Garcia. Under these circumstances, there is little reason to believe Tampa will cover.

Prediction: Tampa Bay 22 Atlanta 20