The Saints have a very potent, efficient offense that can keep drives going, even on third downs. Falcons head coach Mike Smith said winning those third down battles is going to be a big key if Atlanta hopes to come out on top.

On whether the players are highly motivated for the Saints game, with first place on the line:
“I think we’re looking forward to playing. It’s a division game and I think we always put a little bit more weight on the division games. I know that the guys are excited about playing.”

On the play of RB Michael Turner and approaching the Falcons record for career rushing touchdowns:
“I’m not familiar with the milestones that you’re talking about but I think Michael’s had a very good first half of the season for us. I think he’s running as well as he’s run since he’s been here. I like the way he is seeing his holes and showing some speed there to create some explosive plays as well.”

On Saints LB Jonathan Casillas:
“He was a very active player in the ballgame last week. Again, each and every week, we don’t know who’s going to be out there because of the dynamic of injuries and such. We’ve just got to make sure that we’re prepared but I thought he was very active in the ballgame last week.”

On stopping the Saints on third-down to prevent lengthy drives and trips to the red zone:
“It’s going to be a big challenge for us. The third downs are going to be key because they’ll keep drives alive and, right now, they’re converting over 50 percent of their third down opportunities. It’s a very potent offense that can not only throw the ball, but they run the ball very effectively as well. I think sometimes that gets overlooked. They’ve got four very good running backs and when they’re all healthy, they can roll them in and play running back by committee which creates some issues.”

On the improvement of P Matt Bosher:
“We’ve been saying over the last four or five weeks that Matt’s arrow is going up in terms of his punting and kickoffs. I think last week was by far the best game that he had in both those areas. His directional punting and his yardage and our net coverage were very good. He hung the ball up when we needed to and then I think he’s being more consistent kicking the ball into the endzone.”

On the importance of kicking the ball into the endzone with RB/KR Darren Sproles returning kicks:
“It’s going to be a big challenge not only for Matt but for our entire special teams. Darren Sproles is a dynamic kickoff returner as well as punt returner. We’re going to have our hands full.”

On the Saints personnel reaction when CB Tracy Porter was injured last week:
“They had (Malcolm) Jenkins and then they brought their special teams guy, (Jonathon) Amaya, came in and played the nickel spot. Again, they’ll have a week’s preparation. We’re not sure of the status of Porter but we’re not sure exactly how they’ll configure their defense if Tracy is out.”