Atlanta Falcons: Five keys to beat Philadelphia Eagles

1)Third down defense

Sep 3, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle Grady Jarrett (97) reacts after a sack against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter at the Georgia Dome. The Ravens defeated the Falcons 20-19. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Third down defense will be absolutely crucial for the Falcons on Monday night. I always cringe when I see a third-and-7 play when the Falcons are on defense. I have had no confidence whatsoever in the past two years that the Falcons will get off the field in that situation. But, with the unit the Falcons have in 2015, I’m a lot more confident.

If the Falcons are able to get off the field on third down and keep the defense rested, that is a recipe for success. The more possessions the Falcons have on offense, the more point we score. It’s that simple. The Falcons have a somewhat solid secondary and a good front seven. This group is more than capable of getting off the field on third and long situations and winning just enough close battles to pull out the win against Philadelphia.