Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7). Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

NFL Week 2: Green Bay Packers vs. Atlanta Falcons betting picks, preview

By Griffin Carroll | Last updated Sep 14, 2023 2:55 PM ET

Jordan Love looked strong in his Packers debut as their full-time starting QB, and Atlanta beat Carolina to get its season started right as well. In a wide-open NFC, these two teams could be vying for playoff spots later this season, making this an under-the-radar exciting game in Week 2.

Green Bay Packers vs. Atlanta Falcons: Betting Odds

Spread: Atlanta -1, Over/under: 40.5 points, Green Bay -102 | Atlanta -118

Week 1 saw Green Bay absolutely dismantle Chicago, winning 38-20. Jordan Love tossed three touchdowns and completed his fair share of explosive plays down the sideline, and the defense reminded everyone that they have elite talent on that side of the ball.

As for Atlanta, the Falcons once again displayed their run-first identity, and it paid off in a 24-10 win over the Panthers. Atlanta ran for 130 yards and their running backs scored three touchdowns.

This should offer a bit stiffer of a test for the Packers, who may have taken advantage of a Bears defense that has all the makings of one of the worst in the NFL this season.

In 2022, the Packers were 8-9 ATS and the Falcons were 9-8. Atlanta ended 7-10 to the over and Green Bay was 8-9.

Betting Picks for Green Bay vs. Atlanta

Atlanta ML (-118 DK)

We're getting a solid price on the home team to come out with a win here, and the plan here is to go against the grain of the Jordan Love hype.

Love looked good, but as mentioned, that was a bad Bears defense. The Falcons forced three turnovers against rookie Bryce Young, and while Love may be better poised than Young, it's worth acknowledging that this Falcons defense showed some promise.

Where this bet is really set to make its mark is on the ground. Last season, Green Bay was one of the worst rush defenses in football. Don't be surprised if there isn't a single team in the NFL that runs more often than Atlanta. The combination of Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier should find plenty of running lanes, and should success follow, the Falcons can control the pace and keep Love and this offense off the field.

We like the Falcons to win because of it, and consider Allgeier's rushing yards over and Robinson to score a TD as well. We prefer a straight moneyline bet here compared to -1, which could yield a push in the event of a one-point win.

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Griffin Carroll

Griffin Carroll is focused on bringing you the betting numbers that matter. With a focus on the NFL, NHL and NBA, Griffin relies on a data-driven betting approach for prop bets, spread picks and over/unders.

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