The Falcoholic
The Falcons are at a crossroads going into a daunting two-game stretch. Facing two of the league’s more prolific offenses, New England and Indianapolis, provides a stern test for a wounded defense. Considering the defensive personnel likely missing for Sunday’s game against the Patriots, the onus falls heavily on the offense to be efficient and convert red-zone opportunities. They need to be ready to score 30 points against this high-level caliber of opposition.
It’s certainly possible with Michael Penix Jr. and Drake London returning from injury. What raises major doubt is how limited the offense is in its operation. Play action is a total afterthought. They are running wide outside zone so frequently, with repetitive motions in mainly the same two formations. Zac Robinson’s offense has been labeled as predictable and formulaic by analysts across the league. Watching defenses anticipate plays shows there is truth behind those designations.
Raheem Morris is under intense scrutiny for how his team has looked lifeless in multiple losses against below-average teams. A team with playoff expectations can’t be dominated in the way they were by Carolina and Miami. It has left many wondering what the root of the Falcons’ issues is. Where has it gone wrong for Morris? It’s not only about his preparation for the season, but also the recent failures to make the necessary adjustments when his team gets off to a slow start. Most fans believe it stems from the offense’s inability to expand on what they built from last season.
The stagnant nature of the offense for most of the season leaves the franchise in a precarious position. The possibility of being 3-6 in a crowded NFC is troubling for a team that expected far better from themselves. Their disappointing play has left the fanbase with little to no confidence that they can turn their season around.
Can the coaching staff make critical changes to help get the season back on track? Let us know below.
