REPORT CARD: First Half Grades for the Falcons Offense
The Atlanta Falcons are halfway through their regular season games and stand in first place among the NFC South with a 5-3 record. There’s been plenty of good and bad to be seen, but the team is in good standing and in a position to win several more games. A big part of this success has been the offense, but let’s break it down and give it a detailed look, grading by positional groups.
QUARTERBACK: A
What else can be said about Matt Ryan? He’s playing on another level this season and is very much in the MVP conversation. With over 2600 yards, 19 touchdowns and only four picks, Ryan is playing the best football of his NFL career; putting the Falcons in a position to win any game they play.
RUNNING BACKS: B+
The backs have been great this year. A big upside to the Devonta Freeman/Tevin Coleman committee is their versatility. Both have diverse skill sets and have the ability to break off long runs or catch passes out of the backfield. When both are making an impact, this offense is hard to stop.
WIDE RECEIVERS: B-
This grade would be higher if the team finds more consistency from players not named Julio Jones. Mohamed Sanu, Freeman, and Coleman have all led the team in receiving yards for a game, so it’s obvious Ryan isn’t forcing passes. Most looks for other receivers are seen when Jones is double covered and the opportunity presents itself.
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TIGHT ENDS: C+
This group has blocked well and their receiving ability continues to improve. Jacob Tamme hasn’t had ridiculous numbers, but he continues to be a check down security blanket for Ryan. Austin Hooper is really coming into his own and could very well be the Falcons’ tight end for a long time.
OFFENSIVE LINE: B
This group has been up and down to say the least. One week, they limit Von Miller to one sack in Denver, another they commit several boneheaded penalties at home. The most consistent piece has been newly acquired center Alex Mack. He’s been phenomenal and has helped Ryan progress this season. The line has some great outings, but it’s important to be consistent and keep quarterback Matt Ryan off the ground and healthy.
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