Falcons XLIV Odds
One of the sleeper teams to make a run at the 2009 Super Bowl is the Atlanta Falcons, who have added to their explosive offense, led by young quarterback Matt Ryan.
Oddsmakers from online sports book Sportsbook.com have made the Atlanta Falcons 22/1 long shots to win Super Bowl XLIV. They shocked the world last year by making the postseason with a rookie quarterback and a roster seemingly devoid of talent.
The Falcons return their core on offense, which was their strength last season. Unless he suffers a sophomore slump, Ryan should be even better in his second season and will once again have the support of bruising running back Michael Turner and receiver Roddy White, who is emerging as one of the best receivers in the NFL.
Atlanta also added a dynamic piece to their offense in tight end Tony Gonzalez, who they gave up a second round pick to acquire from Kansas City in the offseason. While aging, Gonzalez is one of the best tight ends to ever play the game and should only add to the potency of the Falcons’ explosive offense.
The key to the Falcons’ success this season doesn’t revolve around their offense, however, but their young defense. In the offseason, Atlanta lost veterans Keith Brooking, Lawyer Milloy, Michael Boley, Grady Jackson and Dominque Foxworth. Instead of going out and signing free agents to replace those players they lost, the Falcons relied on the draft to replenish their defense. Therefore, rookies like Peria Jerry and William Moore will be counted on to get Atlanta to the next level.
At 22/1 odds, the Falcons offer a ton of value. Their offense will put up plenty of points this season, but as previously noted their defense will be the key. If young players like Jerry, Moore, Curtis Lofton and Chris Houston step up and produce, you can probably bet on the Falcons making the postseason again. And if they do make the playoffs, the Arizona Cardinals proved last year that if a team gets hot at the right time, they can go all the way to a Super Bowl appearance.
Odds to Win the 2010 Super Bowl XLIV
Atlanta Falcons 22/1
Odds to Win the NFC
Atlanta Falcons 9/1
Odds to Win the NFC South
Atlanta Falcons 2/1
Posted: 6/9/09 8:33PM ET