London (Exclusive to ZennieReport.com)The NFL’s Atlanta Falcons won their first season opener since 2017, it’s also the first time they’ve been over .500 since the end of the 2017 season. Falcons fans will certainly be happy to get those two unwanted statistics out of the way but they won’t be fooled by one win against a team that is not expected to be in the playoff hunt.
Let’s play a little 3 up, 3 down…
3 UP……
Atlanta Falcons Running Game Keys Win Over Panthers
The Falcons running game was a much-welcome surprise last season and this continued against the Panthers in the opener. Tyler Allgeier rushed for 75 yards and two TDs on 15 carries. Rookie Bijan Robinson opened the scoring with some elusive running and added 56 yards on the ground and certainly looks like an exciting prospect. (Note: Codarrelle Patterson was inactive due to a thigh injury.)
The Atlanta defense was carrying 14 new players, one of which, big free agent signing Jessie Bates had two interceptions and a forced fumble. Atlanta won the turnover battle 3-0.
Another thing this team hasn’t had much of lately (when I say lately I mean at least 10 years) is a pass rush. Early on in the game, this trend continued but the Falcons were able to get pressure on rookie Bryce Young in the second half gaining 2 sacks in the process, not amazing numbers but it’s a start for the re-vamped pass rush.
3 DOWN…
Desmond Ridder Still A Question Mark For Falcons
The jury is still very much still out on QB Desmond Ridder after 4 career starts coming into this one. Ridder looked very shaky against the rush especially early on. He rarely went through his progressions and the passing game was virtually non-existent through three quarters. He got marginally better as it went on but he has to improve drastically and quickly for his sake as the Birds are carrying 3 QBs on the roster. (Note: Ridder has yet to throw an interception in his five starts)
The Offensive Line was another pleasant surprise in 2022 and although good in the run game they struggled against the Panthers front 4 in the passing game all afternoon giving up 4 sacks. With a QB still learning the ropes the pass protection has to hold up like it did last year
The play-calling of coach Smith has been in question before and it will be again after this display. With his QB struggling the Falcons rarely had any receivers spread out wide keeping everything in the middle of the field and inviting more pressure on a struggling line and QB. Drake London had zero receptions while Kyle Pitts just two, offensive co-ordinators have been fired for less!!
Next up for Atlanta are the Green Bay Packers at home.
Zennie62Media note: be sure to read Vinny Lospinuso’s post on NFL Ring of Honor Snubs.