NW Atlanta News

The Atlanta Falcons' offensive success in the 2024 season has been largely attributed to their ability to generate explosive plays. These plays, defined as runs of 10 or more yards and passes of 15 or more yards, have proven crucial for extending drives and scoring points.

Statistics show that teams average significantly more points per drive when they gain multiple first downs. The Falcons rank eighth in the NFL with an average of 4.10 points per drive when achieving this feat. TruMedia data highlights that Atlanta also boasts the lowest three-and-out rate in the league at 12%.

The team's down set conversion rate is another indicator of their offensive efficiency, ranking eighth in the NFL at 75%. This metric reflects how well a team can turn one first down into another set of downs or a touchdown.

Atlanta's success is further demonstrated by their performance on drives featuring explosive plays. With 78 such plays this season, including 28 explosive runs and 50 explosive passes, the Falcons have capitalized on these opportunities. They average 3.88 points per drive with an explosive play, ranking eighth in the league.

Kirk Cousins' performance has been instrumental in this regard, with his expected points added (EPA) per dropback being the third-best among passers on drives with an explosive play. The Falcons score on just over seven percent of drives without an explosive play, compared to a much higher percentage when such plays occur.

Running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier have contributed significantly to creating these big gains through missed tackles and yards after contact. Robinson ranks fifth in missed tackles forced entering Week 10 and leads the NFL in yards after catch (YAC).

In addition to offensive achievements, Atlanta's defense has made strides by limiting opponents' big plays. The team ranks second alongside Philadelphia for fewest opponent big plays allowed this season.

Defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake emphasized trust in timing for production improvements: "We're never where we want to be in the middle of the season," he said.

Players like Jessie Bates III have excelled defensively; Bates' interceptions both came from deep throws while maintaining a perfect hawk percentage under coverage conditions according Next Gen Stats analysis reports . Other defenders such as Justin Simmons , Mike Hughes , Dee Alford , A.J Terrell continue contributing effectively against deep passing attempts too .

Assistant head coach Jerry Gray noted progress seen within Terrell’s game : “I think you've seen a guy that's playing with more confidence,” Gray stated .

As long as they maintain momentum offensively via explosiveness coupled alongside solid defensive efforts curbing opposing threats—the future looks promising for Falcon fans hoping continued upward trajectory throughout remainder current campaign year ahead!