The Atlanta Falcons are one of the better teams in the NFC but in recent weeks, they've had a really tough schedule to deal. The Falcons are 4-3 on the year but their three losses have come against three potential playoff teams and Super Bowl contenders.

Sportsbook odds: Falcons -10

The Falcons have lost on the road in New England, in Dallas and in New Orleans. The good news is that this week they get to play the Washington Redskins, who have been absolutely abysmal this year.

If the Falcons are expecting a cupcake, they should be cautious. The Redskins are not a very cohesive unit at this point. Their coach is on the hot seat, their general manager will probably be out the door with him at the end of the season as well and the roster will be reevaluated. Even so, the Redskins are off their bye week and their owned has taken a bite out of their skin. They are surely going to be fired up - at least in the beginning.

The Falcons can't assume anything because this is the NFL. The Redskins probably won't win this game but if the Falcons come out half asleep after a very emotional Monday Night Football contest, they could have to dig out of a big hole to cover this spread.

NFL betting pick: Redskins +10