After a well-timed bye week, the Falcons aim to recover from two discouraging defeats and earn a pivotal win against a playoff-caliber opponent
A bye week can do wonders by allowing a team to physically recover, mentally self-reflect, and spend extensive time in the film room to assess every aspect of performances. The Falcons needed it in the worst way following two painful defeats where they looked either disoriented or overmatched. The team’s biggest flaws were being exploited while the self-inflicted mistakes were still occurring far too often. From incessant slow starts defensively to offensive penalties in the red zone, Raheem Morris’ team has been beating themselves almost as much as opponents have been beating them.
Morris was candid about adjustments he is working on with his staff. Using play action more often appears to be a big priority. Playing with more attention to detail in erasing those drive-destroying penalties was discussed. It’s encouraging to hear those issues acknowledged. While several other issues could have been mentioned, Morris has the right idea of where this team needs to improve.
They come out of the bye week facing the perfect litmus test to see where they stand. The Chargers are a team built on discipline and playing fundamental football. They don’t beat themselves. They tackle incredibly well. Despite having personnel flaws, they are in the right position consistently to make a play on the ball. To match up against a team that doesn’t beat themselves and forces teams to play at their place should be a great challenge to see how the Falcons will fare against playoff-caliber opposition.
Based on recent practice reports, they appear to be getting healthy after being decimated going into Denver. With Morris’ positive statements, key players returning from injury, and an exciting matchup on the horizon, the fanbase is becoming more enthused after two disastrous defeats. Nearly half of them are confident the Falcons are headed in the right direction.
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