Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Why the Falcons Needed to Lose to Buffalo

By: David Schiele (@Deacon_Schiele)

I predicted the Falcons to lose their game against the Buffalo Bills back in April. Ask @ATLSportsNate, I really didn't see how Atlanta could stop a dual-threat quarterback, elite running back, and a pro-bowl tight end. Once I added in the predictable pains of having a new offensive coordinator, the choice to pick Buffalo to win was an easy one.

Don't get it twisted though, I WANTED the Falcons to prove me wrong and win this game. I just didn't realistically see it happening.

I was right. Final score: Bills 23, Falcons 17.

You may have read it...or maybe not, but I wrote a column stating the Falcons got the loss they needed. 

In sum, I said that Atlanta had a cocky attitude after a 10-second runoff gave them their win over the Lions. They carried that attitude throughout the week, instead of recognizing that there were uncharacteristic mistakes that needed to be corrected. This led to the Falcons committing the same mistakes against Buffalo.

Here's why I said the loss was needed:

*Begin scenario*

Imagine the Falcons beat the Bills, just as 99.99% of Falcons fans and "experts" predicted. That gives the Falcons a 4-0 record going into the early bye.

The cocky attitude would've continued and there wouldn't have been a sense of urgency to get better during the bye week.

Coming out the open date, the Falcons host the Miami Dolphins--the same team that just got blanked by the Saints. The Falcons should win that game, so let's put Atlanta at 5-0 and coasting into the Super Bowl rematch in week seven.

Now here's where it gets messy.

Yes, the Patriots just dropped a tough game against Carolina at home, but they're still the Patriots. I know the Falcons will be out for blood and seeking vengeance, but it's not far-fettched to predict a New England victory.

If New England does win that game, Atlanta is morally crushed. Not only did the Falcons fail to get revenge, but the Patriots just ruined their undefeated record. Super Bowl hangover activated. Season over.

*End scenario*

Of course, a loss at New England would still hurt, but not as much as it could because an unblemished record won't be on the line. Plus, Atlanta has a heightened sense of urgency to improve on certain things because they just lost. This means an improved Falcons team will host Miami and then travel to Gillette Stadium, opposed to a complacent Falcons team.

And for that, Buffalo, DBN Fanatics and I thank you.