Colts vs Falcons Prediction & Betting Tips for NFL Preseason Week 2 on 8/22/2026

The Atlanta Falcons are set to visit the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2 of the 2026 NFL preseason. The game will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, with a retractable roof ensuring ideal playing conditions. Scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM, the game will be broadcasted on NFLN.

Both teams enter this game with something to prove after a challenging preseason Week 1. The Falcons, under head coach Kevin Stefanski, suffered a 27-7 defeat against the Denver Broncos. Meanwhile, the Colts, led by head coach Shane Steichen, ended their matchup with the New England Patriots in a 13-13 tie.

In terms of recent performance, the Falcons' offense struggled in their preseason opener, managing only 133 passing yards and 59 rushing yards against the Broncos. On the other hand, the Colts showcased stronger offensive stats, recording 222 passing yards and 133 rushing yards in their game against the Patriots.

Despite their contrasting preseason debuts, both teams share identical records from last season, finishing 8-9 and missing the playoffs. As they clash in this preseason battle, the consensus odds favor the Colts with a moneyline of -200, while the Falcons are at +167, indicating a competitive matchup on the horizon.

Colts vs Falcons At a Glance (Preseason Week 2)

• The Atlanta Falcons are 0-1-0 in the 2026 preseason.
• The Indianapolis Colts have a 0-0-1 record so far this preseason.
• This game is being played at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN.
• The Colts are favored with a moneyline of -200.
• The total points over/under is set at 37.0.
• This is a 2026 Preseason Week 2 game airing on NFLN.

The Indianapolis Colts: Ready to Dominate Preseason Week 2

Offensive Insights

The Indianapolis Colts enter the 2026 preseason with an offense that aims to continue its impressive performance from last season. In 2025, they averaged 27.4 points per game, ranking 7th in the league. The passing game, crucial for their offensive strategy, was also strong, with 227.8 passing yards per game, placing them 9th overall.

Anthony Richardson Sr. will be a key figure to watch this preseason, having thrown for 145 yards in the first preseason game. His connection with tight end Will Mallory, who contributed 80 receiving yards in the last game, will be vital for the Colts' aerial attack. Additionally, running back Anderson Castle, with his 47 rushing yards, will be integral to their ground game.

Defensive Strengths

The Colts' defense aims to build on last year's performance, where they excelled in rushing defense, ranking 7th by allowing just 101.9 rushing yards per game. They started the 2026 preseason strong, conceding only 13 points in their game against the Patriots.

Defensive end Caden Curry made a notable impact with a sack in the last preseason game. Alongside him, George Gumbs Jr. contributed another sack, showcasing the Colts' defensive line's ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. The defense will look to maintain their form against the Atlanta Falcons in their upcoming home game.

Key Players and Injury Updates

As the Colts prepare for their next game, they'll miss wide receiver Alec Pierce due to an ankle injury. Spencer Shrader, the kicker, is also out as he recovers from a torn ACL. However, the team will rely on players like Daniel Jones at quarterback and DeForest Buckner anchoring the defensive line to step up in their absence.

On the offensive line, Quenton Nelson continues to be a cornerstone, providing stability and protection for the Colts' quarterbacks. The combination of seasoned players and rising stars gives the team depth and versatility as they head into the rest of the preseason.

Preseason Performance and Expectations

The Colts are looking to bounce back from their 13-13 tie against the Patriots in the first preseason game. They will be playing at home against the Atlanta Falcons, providing an opportunity to showcase their capabilities in front of their fans at Lucas Oil Stadium.

With a strong offensive line and dynamic playmakers on both sides of the ball, the Colts aim to dominate the upcoming game. Their preseason performance is crucial for setting the tone for the regular season, and they are determined to make a statement against the Falcons.

Betting Trends

• The Colts have a strong trend of hitting the over in preseason games as favorites, with a record of 7-1 in their last 8 games.
• In their last 8 away preseason games, they also hit the over 7 times.
• After a win in preseason play, they are 7-1 in hitting the over in their last 8 games.
• Overall, the Colts have gone over the total in 11 of their last 14 preseason games.
• As underdogs in preseason, they have covered the spread in all their last 3 games.
• Following a loss, they have an ATS record of 5-1 in their last 6 preseason games.
• After a preseason loss, the Colts have won 4 out of their last 5 games outright.

The Atlanta Falcons: Navigating the Preseason Challenges

Quarterback Analysis

Jack Strand leads the Falcons at quarterback, but his preseason debut was less than stellar with only 50 passing yards and no touchdowns. Meanwhile, Tua Tagovailoa, who is also competing for the starting position, managed just 22 passing yards. The team will look to improve its aerial attack as the preseason progresses.

Running Back Performance

Tyler Goodson carried the ball for 28 rushing yards in the Falcons' preseason opener. Bijan Robinson, a key figure in the running game last season, remains a crucial asset. The running back depth provides the Falcons with a balanced attack option, which they aim to leverage in upcoming games.

Receiving Corps and Offensive Support

Chris Blair emerged as a notable target, with 37 receiving yards in the preseason opener. Kyle Pitts Sr. also contributed with 22 receiving yards, showcasing his ability to be a reliable option. The Falcons' receiving corps will need to step up to support the quarterbacks as they seek improved offensive production.

Defensive Adjustments

The defense allowed 27 points against the Broncos, highlighting areas needing improvement. Jammie Robinson and Cobee Bryant led the defensive efforts with a few tackles each. The Falcons will need to tighten their defensive schemes to limit opponent scoring opportunities.

Injury Impact

Several key players, including Storm Norton and Jalon Walker, are sidelined with injuries, affecting the team's depth. James Pearce Jr.'s suspension further complicates the defensive lineup. Managing these absences will be critical for the Falcons to maintain competitive play.

Upcoming Games and Expectations

The Falcons face the Indianapolis Colts next in the preseason, providing another opportunity to assess their roster. With a 3.5-point underdog status, they will aim to refine their strategies on both sides of the ball. Key performances will be crucial as the team builds momentum for the regular season.

Betting Trends

• The Falcons went 4-0 in their last 4 regular-season games in 2025.
• As underdogs, they have been 3-0 in the last 3 regular-season games in 2025.
• In away games, they have a 5-1 record against the spread in the last 6 regular-season games in 2025.
• The over hit in 7 out of their last 10 regular-season games in 2025.

Overall Outlook

The Falcons are in a developmental phase during the preseason, focusing on integrating new players and refining strategies. As the team addresses its weaknesses, particularly in defense and aerial offense, they aim to build a cohesive unit. With strategic adjustments and health improvements, the Falcons look to make a strong showing in the upcoming season.

Colts vs Falcons Prediction: Over 37.0

The Indianapolis Colts have shown a tendency to go over the total in recent preseason games. With a record of 7-1 in over/under as favorites in their last eight preseason games, the trend suggests a higher scoring game might be on the horizon. Considering the offensive firepower they displayed last season, scoring an average of 27.4 points per game, they could push the score over 37.0.

On the other hand, the Atlanta Falcons, while struggling in their preseason opener, have managed to score against the Colts in previous encounters. Their last meeting resulted in a combined score of 56 points, indicating both teams can put points on the board against each other. This further supports the case for the over in this matchup.

Both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities in the preseason, with the Falcons allowing 27 points and the Colts giving up an average of 13 points. This could open the door for offenses to capitalize on their opportunities, leading to a game that surpasses the total of 37.0.

Considering the trends and past performances, the pick is for the total to go over 37.0. A projected scoreline could be the Indianapolis Colts edging the Atlanta Falcons with a final score of 24-20, hitting the over.

• Colts vs Falcons Prediction: Over 37.0
• Colts vs Falcons Score: Colts 24 - Falcons 20

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