Atlanta Reign vs Philadelphia Fusion

For our first OWL match of the day we have an absolute spectacle on our hands: Philadelphia Fusion vs. Atlanta Reign. Now, granted, this probably won't be the highest level of Overwatch play you'll see all year, but it's certainly going to deliver in more ways than one. With the whole pandemic affecting all facets of life, it's nice to have a bit of top-tier Overwatch to indulge in during these trying times.

Philadelphia, in particular, has entered the 2020 season swinging for the fences and is currently considered as one of the best, most talented, and dangerous contenders in the entire LEague. Obviously, with a good number of teams not competing (or not competing that often, rather), it's hard to fully understand who's good and who isn't, but the point still stands. They're currently ranked second with a spectacular 8W-1L record, with a +15 map differential. Even though we're a ways off from the playoffs, it's fair to assume that if they continue playing at such a high level that they'll make big waves in a couple of months' time.

By the same token, Atlanta is forming into a very capable challenger with four wins and two losses. Their games have been all over the place and while we saw a ton of baffling play, at least they had more than a few moments of brilliance sprinkled in between. They've outclassed Washington last week in quick 3-0 fashion (which, granted wasn't that big of a test), and they also hold wins over Florida Mayhem, Boston Uprising, and Toronto Defiant. So, on paper, they didn't exactly have the toughest strength of schedule. Still, they've shown great play from time to time and they should not be underestimated.

These two teams already fought a couple of weeks ago in an insanely competitive 3-2 barnburner. Philly was up two maps to zero before Atlanta fought back and evened things out. It was a clash for the ages, but Philly kept their composure when it mattered the most. There's no reason why that won't happen again. They're better in every regard, at least when their backs are against the wall. A small slip-up that allowed Atlanta to even the playing field shouldn't hurt their stock at all.

In any case, if both teams come out the gates swinging expect a spectacular five-game brawl that will be decided by the slimmest of margins.