Power Ranking NFC South Offenses: Where do Atlanta Falcons rank?
Nov 9, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) calls a play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
1. Atlanta Falcons
Top quarterback? Check. Elite receiver? Check?
Running game? Watch this space.
The Atlanta Falcons were a pass-happy team in 2014, and they were one of the best in the league in the air. They may not need to rely so much on the arm of Matt Ryan and hands of Julio Jones this year though, due to what looks like a powerful 1-2 punch in the backfield with Tevin Coleman and Devonta Freeman.
Before we get to them, let’s look at the passing game. Ryan is a consistent top-10 performer among NFL quarterbacks, and he has plenty of firepower to work with in 2015.
Julio Jones could be among the top-3 wideouts in the league, behind Dez Bryant and Antonio Brown. At worst, he’s a top-5. At just 26 years old, Jones has plenty left in the tank assuming he stays healthy, and he will be the feature piece in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.
Roddy White can still produce as a second option, and rookie Justin Hardy will likely compete for the third spot in the slot. Devin Hester is another threat, too.
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That leaves Coleman and Freeman to fight it out for the starting running back job. Coleman is a violent, powerful runner who gets the nod from me to be the starter, although the Falcons will need plenty of help from Freeman too.
A stronger run game will benefit the entire offense, and will open up passing lanes, give Matt Ryan more manageable third downs and invite the play-action pass.
Potentially, the Falcons could have one of the NFL’s best offenses in 2015, not just the NFC South. For that to happen, the run game will need to live up to its potential and the offensive line will need to perform at a higher level.
Right now, the Atlanta Falcons have the best offense in the NFC South.