ATLANTA, GA (The Spread) – The Falcons will attempt to keep their playoff hopes alive on Sunday when they host the Steelers and will possibly be without their best player.
Julio Jones destroyed the Packers on Monday night while catching 11 passes for 259 yards and one touchdown as the Falcons’ second half comeback attempt fell short in a 43-37 loss. Jones nearly scored an additional two times but he couldn’t drag a toe in the end zone on a reception out of bounds in the end zone and the other time he was tackled near the goal line.
On that play at the goal line, Jones also suffered a hip injury and his status is uncertain for Sunday’s game versus the Steelers in Atlanta. Coach Mike Smith didn’t offer much of an update on Tuesday when asked about Jones’ injury and then on Wednesday the star receiver didn’t practice.
According to oddsmakers from online sports book BetDSI, the Steelers are currently listed as 3-point road favorites versus the Falcons. If Jones can’t play, Pittsburgh may be a steal at -3. Thanks to a horrific defense, the only real shot Atlanta has at winning games is by Matt Ryan and Jones destroying opponents through the air. Take away Jones and Ryan will have a banged up Roddy White, Harry Douglas and Devin Hester to throw to. Needless to say, even Pittsburgh’s brutal secondary can keep that trio in check.
Want More From TheSpread.com? Follow us on Twitter and Facebook or Subscribe to Our News Feeds!