Atlanta Falcons vs Philadelphia Eagles: Full Game Preview
Aug 14, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker Derek Akunne (49) talks with linebacker Vic Beasley (44) as they walk off of the field after their preseason NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans at Georgia Dome. The Falcons won 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Who to watch
Tevin Coleman
Tevin Coleman will play a huge role on offense for the Falcons moving forward, and it all starts against the Eagles. If Atlanta can run the ball effectively, they can control the clock and dictate the tempo of the game. Coleman will be used to keep Sam Bradford and DeMarco Murray off the field.
Coleman is listed as the starter, but he is far from locking down the spot. He will need a good performance to prevent Devonta Freeman leapfrogging him on the depth chart.
Vic Beasley
Need pass rush? Why not turn to the best pure pass rusher in the 2015 NFL Draft? Vic Beasley is coming off the back of an impressive preseason showing, and the Falcons will need him to be the dominant player he was in college. Up against a strong offensive line, how will he cope?
Coach Quinn wants Atlanta to play fast and physical, and Beasley is exactly that. His burst off the snap is lightning fast, and he will be one of the keys to this game for the Falcons.
Jake Matthews
Jake Matthews is listed as probable on the injury report after recovering from a back injury. He is coming off the back of an awful rookie season, and was graded as the league’s worst tackle on Pro Football Focus, but is believed to make a big jump by many. He will be crucial in protecting Matt Ryan, so keep an eye on him.