Atlanta Falcons vs. Oakland Raiders: To-Do Checklist for Week 2

4. Emphasize The Run Game 

I started with this element on the checklist for the Tampa contest and of course, the run game was nonexistent in Week 1.

During the 6-1 start in 2015, the Falcons rushed for at least 105 yards in six of the seven games, including rushing for at least 127 yards in a five-game stretch. As effective the passing game was during Week 1 against Tampa, the ultimate outcome may have been different if the Falcons were able to total more than 52 yards in the rushing department. Even though part of that total has to deal with the Bucs having a pretty good run defense.

The Raiders gave up 4.0 yards per carry in 22 rushing attempts to the Saints. The disparity in play-calling more than likely changed for the Saints based on the game becoming more of a shootout. What that also says is that running lanes may be there for the Falcons in this one. The passing game with Ryan, Jones, Sanu, Hardy, and Tamme can be effective but having that ability to get four or five yards a carry with Freeman & Coleman will make things so much easier for Ryan and his targets.