As the Atlanta Falcons prepare to welcome the New Orleans Saints to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, fans are anticipating a game that could be influenced by more than just player performance. The venue, known for its raucous home crowd and state-of-the-art facilities, may give the Falcons an edge in this matchup.

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Jared Bernhardt (83) lines up during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022, in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons won 28-12. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)

Analyzing last season's data reveals some trends for the Falcons. With a red zone efficiency of 54 percent and a third-down conversion rate of 39 percent, they've shown they can capitalize on critical moments but also have room for improvement. Their average rushing yards were modest at about 4 yards per carry with their longest rush being 39 yards and their longest touchdown run capped at 19 yards. In terms of passing, they had a completion percentage of approximately 66 percent with an average of almost 7 yards per attempt and a quarterback rating of around 87.

Special teams were reliable with field goal accuracy sitting impressively high at over 93 percent, though punting could see some gains as net yardage averaged around 40 yards. Defensively speaking, sacks totaled up to only about half what is typically considered dominant in the league; however, interceptions stood at a respectable count of twelve.

Atlanta Falcons cornerback Mike Ford (28) lines up during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022, in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons won 28-12. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)

The team's ability to avoid turnovers will be crucial against the Saints' defense. Last season saw them fumble twenty-four times and lose eleven – numbers they'll want to minimize moving forward.

In their previous encounter as indicated by game data from September last year, it was an intense battle where despite scoring more points in three out of four quarters (3-7 in Q1;13-0 in Q2;7-3 in Q3), the Falcons fell short by one point due to a fourth-quarter surge (3-17) by the Saints ending with an overall scoreline favoring New Orleans (26-27).

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Cameron Batson (16) lines up during the first half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022, in Atlanta. The Atlanta Falcons won 28-12. (AP Photo/Danny Karnik)

Fans should expect another close contest where every possession counts and special teams could make all the difference. The upcoming game is scheduled for September 11th at Mercedes-Benz Stadium starting from five o'clock local time. It will be broadcasted live on FOX network – ensuring fans won't miss any action from this riveting NFC South rivalry.

Atlanta Falcons - NFL - Preview

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