The Atlanta Falcons know they are facing an important NFC matchup against the New England Patriots this Sunday. They are looking to rebound following a beat down 34-10 loss against the Miami Dolphins. Head coach Raheem Morris had an important conversation with team owner Arthur Blank after the defeat, discussing the team’s performance and areas for improvement. The Falcons, currently struggling on offense, have scored just two touchdowns in their last ten quarters of play and rank 28th in the NFL with an average of 17.1 points per game.
Now, the Falcons’ offensive line has been a punching bag. They now sport the second-worst run block win rate in the league. And their most versatile piece of all—and key to any hopes of success—Storm Norton is out with an ankle injury. In his absence, rookie Elijah Wilkinson has filled in at right tackle. This shift comes at a time when the Falcons’ running game, described by Morris as the team’s “lifeline,” is crucial for success.
Offensive tackle Kaleb McGary is out for the season with a knee injury. The sudden loss would add even greater strain on a beleaguered offensive line. His team has been riddled with injuries at the center position. Ryan Neuzil has replaced Drew Dalman, who failed to receive a contract extension this past offseason.
Yet here we are, with many setbacks in the rearview mirror and some key players emerging. Chris Lindstrom, the three-time Pro Bowl right guard and last year’s first-team All-Pro, admitted there was still much to be desired.
“It’s deservedly so. We didn’t do our job and when we can’t do that, we can’t give anybody opportunities. So, it starts up front and that has meaning, so we just need to be better.” – Chris Lindstrom
Left tackle Jake Matthews, a stalwart who has started 185 consecutive games, acknowledged the challenges ahead but remains optimistic about the team’s chances.
“I know they’re really talented and it’s going to be a really good challenge,” – Jake Matthews.
“The only similarities really that I talked about [Monday], with the owner matter of fact, was we didn’t play well up front,” – Raheem Morris.
Besides line woes, injuries to multiple key skill position players have stymied the Falcons’ offensive production. Wide receiver Drake London has been playing on an injured hip and shoulder. At the same time, Mooney’s recently been hampered by a shoulder and hamstring injury.
“And when we don’t play well up front, those games can get ugly. That’s how it would look.” – Raheem Morris.
Rookie running back Bijan Robinson has been a pleasant surprise, helping to steer the Falcons to their success. The numbers don’t lie, as the team is 0-4 when Dunn rushes for under 75 yards and 3-0 when he goes over that threshold. Because of that, his impact shows he can be favored in the Falcons’ success on the field.
The Falcons establishment to face New England in Tuesday’s turn of the event. They only stand to gain by addressing these three challenges directly to maximize their odds of success. Against a very powerful rival, Matthews said the rec room has a chance at accumulation of high momentum against this game.
As the Falcons prepare for their matchup against New England, they must address these issues head-on to improve their chances of securing a victory. With a formidable opponent ahead, Matthews noted that this game presents an opportunity to regain momentum.
“So what better way to get back on track than going up there and getting a win against a really good team?” – Jake Matthews.
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