Atlanta Falcons vs. Jacksonville Jaguars: Tale of the tape

The defenses

One thing this game could highlight is both team’s inability to play defense. The Falcons did own the league’s No. 1 defense before the Week 12 game with the Vikings, but have since been blown away in three straight weeks.

[table id=93 /]

Atlanta allowed 191 yards on the ground to Minnesota, 166 to Tampa Bay and 142 to Carolina. This has been key to the Falcons’ downfall in recent weeks, and it has allowed offenses to get the better of them.

The Falcons have improved against the pass from last year, but have still be burned by good passing teams. Cam Newton had a lot of success against the Falcons secondary last week. A lot of the issues stems from the lack of a pass rush.

Jacksonville is allowing 27.5 points per game, and is No. 23 in total defense. They are No. 14 against the run but No. 26 against the pass. To beat the Jaguars, the Falcons will need to be able to move the football in the air.

This has the makings of a game won on offense, particularly throwing the football. Neither defense is particularly strong stopping the pass, and both are better against the run. To win, the Falcons will need to throw the football well and force turnovers on defense.