Atlanta Falcons shouldn’t fire anyone, and can Panthers go undefeated?

1. The Atlanta Falcons shouldn’t fire anyone

Losing sucks, and the Atlanta Falcons have been dealing with a whole lot of losing the past six weeks. But let’s be honest, this team isn’t ready to compete deep into the playoffs and in Super Bowls. This is just the beginning of the new regime, and it’s one they need to stick with.

In 2014, the Falcons were No. 32 in total defense, No. 32 in pass defense and No. 21 in run defense. In 2015, they own the No. 11 defense, No. 15 against the pass and No. 10 against the run.

Dan Quinn was hired because of his defensive mind, and his first goal was to improve the Falcons defense. So far it’s mission accomplished. Last year, Atlanta owned the No. 32 defense, No. 32 against the pass and No. 21 against the run.

Through 11 games this year, the Falcons are No. 11 overall, No. 15 against the pass and No. 10 against the run. That’s an incredible turnaround in such a short space of time, and let’s not forget they were No. 1 in rushing defense before Adrian Peterson came to town last Sunday.

The offense has had its struggles, but these are correctable over time. Kyle Shanahan is implementing a brand new system, one Matt Ryan has to grow accustomed to. There’s clearly been a personnel issue more than anything this year. Outside of Julio Jones, there has been no reliable second option at receiver. Leonard Hankerson can’t stay healthy, and neither Roddy White or rookie Justin Hardy have emerged as a No. 2.

What we need is patience. What were the team’s weaknesses last year? The defense, the offensive line and the run game. All three areas have improved significantly. The current losing streak is frustrating, but when you put this season in perspective, the improvements are clear.

This is just the beginning, have confidence these coaches will continue to help the Falcons grow.

Next: The best month of the year