2023 Atlanta Falcons schedule analysis

Circle the date: Week 3 at Lions (Sept. 24)

The Bijan Robinson-Jahmyr Gibbs Bowl is almost here. The Falcons and Lions raised eyebrows by selecting running backs Robinson and Gibbs in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft and the two franchises have a chance to silence everyone who criticized them in this Week 3 game. All eyes will be on the two rookies and Atlanta and Detroit are hoping they deliver.

Toughest stretch: Weeks 12-15

Not only do the Falcons play three divisional games in this four-week span in the Saints, Bucs and at the Panthers, but they also travel to New York in the first week of December to play the Jets. Teams want to be playing their best football in the later months and if the Falcons win these games, they'll likely be in a position to run away with the NFC South. 

Easiest stretch: Weeks 5-8

Atlanta can give itself some slack by taking charge in this easier stretch beginning on Oct. 8 with games against the Texans and Commanders and trips to play the Bucs and Titans. 

Per CBS Sports, the Texans' over/under win total for the 2023 season is set at 5.5 games, tied with the Cardinals for the lowest in the league. If there's one concern about the game against Houston, it's that it comes the week after the Falcons play Jacksonville in London. 

The Commanders, Bucs and Titans have over/under win totals that suggest each will finish with a losing record. All have QB situations as unexciting as Atlanta's but without as many promising young weapons. Good teams take care of weaker competition and this would be the time for Atlanta to establish itself as a good team and for QB Desmond Ridder to prove he belongs.

Potential flex game: Week 18 at Saints 

Per Oddschecker, New Orleans is the favorite in the NFC South but should Atlanta's Robinson gamble and free agency additions pay off, this game could be for the division crown. The NFL lists Week 18 games as "To Be Determined" until the final week to ensure the last game has something at stake. For a regular-season finale, nothing would be bigger than a game with a division championship on the line.