Atlanta Falcons: Ten keys for victory vs. Jaguars

Aug 28, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) reacts as he is sacked by Atlanta Falcons linebacker Paul Worrilow (55) in the first quarter of their game at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports

4. Sack Bortles multiple times

Blake Bortles has been sacked 39 times this season, which is second most in the NFL. He is a talented passer and can operate efficiently when given a clean pocket. He’s being sacked an average of three times per game, so sending him to the turf is key.

The more you sack a quarterback, the more you alter the timing of throws and the confidence in protection. Bortles is a courageous quarterback, but if he gets a handful of sacks, who could blame him for having a quick peak at the rush? Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The Falcons have struggled to make sacks all year, and that needs to change.

3. Slow down Robinson/Hurns

Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns have the ability to light up defenses. The two have combined for 1,947 yards and 20 touchdowns this season. If Hurns hadn’t missed time with a concussion, the Jaguars could have been in line for two 1,000-yard receivers in a season. Maybe it will still happen.

Both are dangerous threats who will test the Falcons secondary all day long. It goes back to my point about generating pass rush, though. If Bortles is able to operate in a clean pocket, he will be able to pick apart the Falcons defense with Robinson and Hurns on the field.

Next: The Falcons must do this to win