Atlanta Falcons: Four things they must do to make playoffs in 2016

Dec 20, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) drops out of the pocket to throw the ball to wide receiver Julio Jones (11) for a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) drops out of the pocket to throw the ball to wide receiver Julio Jones (11) for a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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November 8, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive end Vic Beasley (44) runs during the second quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi
November 8, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive end Vic Beasley (44) runs during the second quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi /

1. Bring the pressure

To say the Falcons had a pass rush last season just feels wrong. That is how bad they were. Rarely could they bring pressure on the QB much less bring him to the ground, leaving him endless time oftentimes to make throws. No matter how good your secondary is the amount of time that the pass rush allowed to pass the ball would have made Tim Tebow look like Peyton Manning in his prime.

Vic Beasley has transitioned to a position to fit his size and the linebackers and defensive line has undergone some serious changes. For the Falcons to have a chance at the playoffs this season these changes have to take effect sooner rather than later.

Not to say that this defense is going to pile up the sacks to bring us to a playoff berth. Simply that they need to be able to bring pressure on the quarterback to force throws and give receivers less time working on our secondary.

Next: Atlanta Falcons: Top 20 games in franchise history

If the Falcons can muster any type of legitimate pass rush this season, they will have a legitimate shot at making the playoffs in 2016.