The Falcons have turned into one of the most potent rushing offenses in football. By most metrics, Arthur Smith’s offense is elite at moving the ball on the ground — fourth in yards per carry (4.9) and third in yards per game (159). However, the passing facet of the offense leaves a lot to be desired. Atlanta ranks 26th in completion percentage (61.82%), second to last in passing yards per game (155.7), but 15th in pass yards per attempt (7.0). This makes it head-scratching that PFF views the Falcons as a top-five unit in the league.
PFF's Top 5 Offenses
1. Chiefs (84.9)
2. Eagles (84.0)
3. Falcons (82.6)
4. 49ers (81.1)
5. Bengals (80.4)Interesting to say the least…
— uSTADIUM (@uSTADIUM) January 4, 2023
The Falcons aren’t a terrible offense by any means. Arthur Smith has established one of the most diverse and effective running games in football; the passing game just hasn’t been there, but that’s more of an indictment on the personnel. We saw a successful passing attack under Smith during his first season in Atlanta with Matt Ryan as the signal caller. Marcus Mariota and Desmond Ridder just haven’t quite been up to that standard.
It probably isn’t top five to most people. They’re probably closer to the league average. Atlanta ranks 17th in yards per play (5.3), 10th in third down conversion rate (41.99%), 19th in points per game (20.9), and 12th in offensive giveaways per game (1.3). The Falcons are improving, and an influx of talent this offseason should only accelerate that improvement.
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Photographer: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire
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