Grading Atlanta Falcons’ Through 4 Games
Sep 7, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant (21) defends on a pass intended for New Orleans Saints wide receiver Joe Morgan (13) during the first quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Pass Defense and Secondary:
Having spent 1st and 2nd round picks to acquire corners Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford in 2013, the Falcons secondary came in to 2014 as a raw but talented unit. It’s hard to truly say how the secondary has performed, as the complete lack of pass rush would cause any defense to struggle against opposing QBs. The Falcons rank second last in passing yards allowed per game, conceding nearly 430 yards on average through 4 weeks. The secondary has performed admirably against good quarterbacks, defending against Drew Brees particularly well in week 1, but has also been torched by rookies and middle of the road QBs. The Falcons have recorded just 2 interceptions, and have dropped several which looked like guaranteed picks, but it’s difficult to place all the blame on the secondary when opposing teams have as much time as they want in the pocket. Defensive coordinator Mike Nolan relies on defensive ends and linebackers to defend wide receivers in an attempt to confuse opposing QBs, which needs to end moving forward. Grade: C-