Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: To-Do Checklist for Week 1

1. Get Freeman & Coleman Involved Early 

In both games against the Buccaneers last season, the Falcons only managed to rush for 165 combined yards. Granted, the Buccaneers were solid against the run last season as they ranked 11th overall, allowing only 100.4 yards per game. and 3.4 yards per carry. That run defense is spearheaded by McCoy. McCoy has been to the Pro Bowl each of the past four seasons and is the best player with the Bucs defensive unit.

Along with McCoy are the two linebackers in David and Alexander who are athletic and play with impressive speed. They were one and two, respectively, in tackles with David posting 147 and Alexander totaling 93.

It was clear last season that the Falcons were successful when starting running back Devonta Freeman was grabbing yards in chunks. If you recall, the first matchup against Tampa in Week 8 was the first of eight straight games where Freeman failed to hit the 100-yard plateau. Establishing Freeman will prevent the Bucs linebackers from clogging up passing lanes which of course make things a little easier for Julio Jones, Mohamed Sanu, and others. The coaching staff has intentions on getting second-year running back Tevin Coleman involved heavily in the run game as well. Having his breakaway speed will be a tough one-two punch for the Bucs defense to defend.

Next: The Defensive Line