NW Atlanta News

The Atlanta Falcons are currently at the bottom of the NFL rankings for quarterback sacks, yet their defense remains steadfast in avoiding excuses. Head coach Raheem Morris acknowledges the need for improvement, noting that all five of Atlanta's games have been decided by a single possession. "I think all our games have been kind of locked and loaded as far as a three-point game," Morris said. He emphasized that better opportunities to pressure the quarterback arise when playing with a lead.

Despite their low sack count, with only five this season, the Falcons excel in pass defense. They have allowed the fewest completions over 20 yards and none beyond 50 yards. This success is attributed to frequently dropping eight defenders into coverage, which ranks them third among teams according to TruMedia.

Defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake stressed the importance of stopping the run to create more passing situations for opponents. "What we talk about is we have to earn the right to rush the passer first," Lake stated. The Falcons' rushing defense has given up at least 100 yards each game but maintains a respectable average of 4.36 yards per carry.

As they prepare to face the Carolina Panthers, who have struggled with pass protection allowing 12 sacks this season, there is potential for improvement in Atlanta's sack numbers. The Panthers are on their second quarterback after benching Bryce Young in favor of Andy Dalton.

Grady Jarrett expressed determination within the team: "We got to be better... But I can reassure you that we're doing enough self-scout to be able to be more productive in that area."