1. Through the Struggles, the Falcons keep finding ways to win
In a very sloppy game, the Atlanta Falcons found a way to win. Dealing with an offensive funk lately, the team won this game on the defensive side of the ball. Rookie safety Robenson Therezie had an interception that sealed the game late in the fourth quarter. The defense gave up seven points, but that was when Matt Ryan threw an interception that the Titans brought to the Falcons 19 yard line. Titans quarterback Zach Mettenberger threw a 19-yard touchdown on the ensuing play. Defense wins ballgames, but the offense needs to get back to their scoring ways.
2. Pass-Rush is Still Struggling
The Falcons only had one sack on the day, which is yet again another poor performance from the defense. They had seven quarterback hits, which is promising, but they need to find a way to create momentum and bring the quarterback down. O’Brien Schofield was the only player that had a sack. In the first half, Atlanta played conservative, as they did not bring many blitzes. In the second half, they brought pressure that got to Mettenberger. On the Therezie interception, Vic Beasley and Kemal Ishmael brought the pressure that affected Mettenberger enough to force him to release the ball quicker than he should have. This is one part on the defense that has been lacking, but I have no doubt the coaches will find the ways to get their men in the backfield.
3. Besides Julio Jones, the team is lacking at Wide Receiver Position
Star receiver Julio Jones had 9 receptions for 92 yards, hauling in the only touchdown for Atlanta. Only two other wide receivers had catches, Roddy White (3) and Nick Williams (3). Matt Ryan likes to hit his running backs and tight ends, but the Falcons wide receivers have to find ways to step up. White has been a shell of himself this season, and his production has shown that. Leonard Hankerson went out with a hamstring injury, and that could affect him throughout the rest of the season. Jones is the best receiver in the NFL in my mind, but he needs help around him. Atlanta must find ways to involve their wide receiving core.