Six key matchups for the Saints against rival Falcons

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Jan 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) fights for extra yardage after making a catch against New Orleans Saints cornerback Delvin Breaux (40) and defensive back Kyle Wilson (24) in the second quarter of their game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

Saints Secondary vs. Julio Jones, Falcons Receiver Group

The matchup to watch will be the toughest test for New Orleans. The Saints have simply been crippled at cornerback. I don’t ever remember a unit—on any team—catching the bug this badly. It couldn’t come at a worse time, with the Saints facing two of the league’s top receivers in back to back weeks.

The Saints did their valiant best against Odell Beckham Jr. last week, limiting him to underneath catches and keeping the Giants offense out of the end zone. He still had eight receptions for 86 yards. You figure Sterling Moore will draw the Julio assignment again, where the vet has some experience. But it’s still an area of concern. De’Vante Harris and Ken Crawley, meanwhile will have their hands full with Justin Hardy and Mohamed Sanu.

Expect to see safeties, namely Vaccaro, Harper, and Vonn Bell, cover the slot on early downs. If the Saints are going to hold this talented receiver group, they’ll have to do it as a team.