Atlanta Falcons: Ten keys for victory vs. Jaguars

Dec 13, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Devin Hester (17) returns a punt during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

8. Win the special teams battle

The Jaguars’ Rashad Greene returned a punt 73 yards for a touchdown last week, and a play such as this can break an opponent’s will. In what will likely be a battle of the two offenses, giving up a big return can be sinking. When Ted Ginn broke away on a 74-yard touchdown last week, it was over.

On the flip side of that, having Devin Hester healthy is huge for this team. He had a couple of nice returns last week, and if he is able to break out a big one, it could swing the momentum Atlanta’s way.

7. Dominate time of possession

Jacksonville’s offense is capable of putting up points by spreading the football around to a host of talented pass catchers. A good way of limiting them is to keep them off the field completely. Win the time of possession.

How do you do this? A mix of an effective run game and third down conversions will get it done. If Devonta Freeman can get anywhere close to his early-season form, and the Falcons can move the chains on third down, they will be able to sustain long, clock-killing drives and wear down the Jaguars defense.

Next: Putting it right