Grading Atlanta Falcons’ Through 4 Games
Sep 14, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Atlanta Falcons cornerback Robert McClain (27) tackles Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (25) in the first half at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Rushing Defense:
The trend of addressing areas of need continues, with the lowly ranked 2013 Falcons running defense receiving a lot of help in the offseason. New DL coordinator Bryan Cox went after personnel to suit his philosophy of strength and bulk between the tackles, but so far this too has been underwhelming. The Falcons are often exposed on the edge, and opposing RBs running pitches or stretch plays can find a lot of open space once they turn the corner. LB Paul Worrilow currently ranks 2nd in the league with 44 tackles, and has done a lot to step up and help out in run defense. However, opposing RBs are continually getting to the second level, and the Falcons currently rank 28th in the league, allowing over 153 yards per game on the ground. Grade: D