Atlanta Falcons: Ten keys for victory vs. Jaguars

Oct 15, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) breaks a tackle by New Orleans Saints free safety Jairus Byrd (31) on a touchdown run during the fourth quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Falcons 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

2. Win the turnover battle

Every single week this is high on the list, and every single week it’s just as important. For once, the Falcons’ turnovers didn’t cost them a game. The turnovers were still there, but being blown away by a better football team is what cost them the game.

Against the Jaguars, the Falcons have to win the turnover battle. You don’t want to give their offense extra possessions, particularly in good field position. Neither team has protected the ball this season. The Falcons are minus-6 in turnover differential; the Jaguars minus-5.

Bortles has 13 interceptions on the year. Add to that.

1. Throw to score, run to win

This is the kind of game where throwing the football will be important, but the Falcons must not abandon the run. The Jaguars are pass-happy team and the game could become a battle of the two offenses.

But maintaining balance will help the Falcons. Throwing the football will be key to scoring points, but running the football will help them win the game. A successful ground game helps you control the tempo and the clock, wear down the defense and kill clock late in the game if in the lead.

Throw to score, run to win.