Atlanta Falcons Pass Rush Is Key To Success

The Atlanta Falcons pass defense has struggled and has been criticized all year. And all the blame went to one missing formula: The Pass Rush.

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On Sunday while watching the game at Raymond James Stadium at Tampa Bay, I saw the “good” defensive unit out there. The same Atlanta Falcons group that showed up in the first half against the Detroit Lions and the same team that showed up against the Buccaneers earlier in the season. And it was so obvious that this team was who they were on the field because of the relentless pass rush that was coming.

Osi Umenyiora took a dive in the fountain of youth, racking up 1.5 sacks and 3 quarterback hits. He was dipping his shoulder, and using his old speed and strength to make sure Josh McCown didn’t have a big game.

Kroy Biermann was fantastic all around. He had five total tackles, including 1.5 sacks and two tackles for loss, giving fans a glimpse of Biermann that they have never seen before in 2014. He was making big plays out there, playing aggressively and to the ball.

Malliciah Goodman, from my notes, had 2 quarterback hurries but also had a forced fumble that was recovered by the Dirty Birds.

All in all, the Falcons finished with a season-high four sacks and 11 quarterback hits, WOW.

Heading into next week, the same defense must show up. Cam Newton has struggled all season but he’s still dangerous and is a dynamite waiting to explode. They must disturb him early and make sure he doesn’t get in a rhythm or it will be a long game for the Atlanta Falcons.