Atlanta Falcons vs Carolina Panthers: To-Do Checklist for Week 16
#2. Protect Matt Ryan
Matt Ryan was sacked three times in Week 3 but still passed for 503 yards, four touchdowns, and posted a quarterback rating of 142.0. What does that tell us?
We know that Ryan can be pressured and still torch the Panthers’ defense.
The Panthers have been on a roll lately in the sack department and are tied for first in the NFL with 40 sacks. Carolina defensive tackles Kawann Short and Star Lotulelei have combined for 9.5 sacks, while reserve defensive end Mario Addison leads the team with 7.5.
More from Atlanta Falcons News
- Atlanta Falcons are the perfect fit for Leonard Floyd
- 3 Largest Atlanta Falcons 2023 dead cap hits
- Atlanta Falcons trade up for a quarterback in this full mock draft
- Atlanta Falcons: 3 trade packages to land first-overall pick
- 3 Reasons the Atlanta Falcons shouldn’t fear Derek Carr and the Saints
In order for Matt Ryan to continue his stellar play, the front line for the Falcons must keep him upright. In the meantime, keep in mind the Panthers are still 32nd in pass defense. Count on the Falcons to go right at such a glaring weakness. Keeping Ryan clean and comfortable makes it a much easier task.
The return of star receiver Julio Jones from injury is huge. In addition to Julio, the Panthers have to worry about Taylor Gabriel’s deep threat ability. Also complicating things for Carolina will be the presence of receivers, Mohamed Sanu, Justin Hardy, and Aldrick Robinson.
All this and I haven’t mentioned the dynamic duo in running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman.