To say the Falcons offense has started slow through Week 4 would be an understatement.
Arthur Smith’s offense has scored 19 total first-half points, which is less than five points per game, ranking among the league’s worst. Atlanta has been down in three of their four contests going into the locker room.
Smith has consistently mentioned jump starting the offense, but what does that even entail?
Desmond Ridder is constantly working behind the chains, and the offense has struggled to sustain drives. It’s quite possible that Cordarrelle Patterson is that spark; Smith seems to think so.
“Would hope to continue to take another step this week because if you get a healthy CP out there, that can certainly help our offense,” Smith said. “You talk about a spark. That could certainly help, too.”
Cordarrelle Patterson made his 2023 debut last week against the Jaguars in London after missing the first three games with a thigh injury. Despite suiting up, he got more snaps on special teams than he did on offense.
Given Patterson’s dynamic presence, it would be smart to get him a few more looks, but spending so much time on the sideline might warrant a slower start. There’s no arguing his impact when he’s healthy, though.
Patterson posted nearly 1,200 yards and 11 touchdowns from scrimmage in 2021 as a weapon in the passing and rushing attack, becoming the first player in franchise history to eclipse 500 yards rushing and receiving. He set another career mark in rushing yards and touchdowns the following year.
I expect him to be used in a capacity closer to the 2021 role than in 2022, where he was used more as a traditional running back. He adds a dynamic to this offense that really stresses defenses, so key in on Cordarrelle Patterson this weekend.
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Photographer: Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire
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