The Falcons appear to be catching the Steelers at a perfect time.  With Dennis Dixon starting at QB the Steelers offense is a big turnover waiting to happen.  Here is a close look at the match-ups:

When the Falcons have the ball:  The Falcons are going to try to stay balanced this Sunday.  RB Michael Turner will be attacking the middle of the Steelers’ D which is usually pretty solid against the run.  But I still think he will have success because the Steelers can’t really key on him because of the Falcons’ passing game.  The Falcons will have to be able to handle Steelers’ OLB James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley who will be rushing Matt Ryan every time he drops back.  If the Falcons keep the heat off of Ryan he will have a lot of success throwing the ball against the Steelers.  Roddy White is a mis-match against whichever corner the Steelers try to put on him.  Tony Gonzalez should also have a good game against the Steelers.  Ryan just has to be careful to know where SS Troy Polamalu is at on every play as he is a difference maker for the Steelers.

When the Steelers have the football:  The Steelers are going to try to run the football so the Falcons’ linebackers need to be ready and I think they will be more than up to the challenge.  That would force Dennis Dixon to pass the ball which is exactly what the Falcons want him to do.  He is a turnover machine so don’t be surprised if the Falcons’ get a pick six interception this Sunday.

PREDICTION:  FALCONS 20, STEELERS 9