Atlanta Falcons vs Carolina Panthers: To-Do Checklist for Week 16

Sep 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) is congratulated by quarterback Matt Ryan (2) after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders in the second quarter at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) is congratulated by quarterback Matt Ryan (2) after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders in the second quarter at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 9, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Atlanta Falcons guard Andy Levitre (67) and center Alex Mack (51) and offensive guard Chris Chester (65) during the first half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 9, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Atlanta Falcons guard Andy Levitre (67) and center Alex Mack (51) and offensive guard Chris Chester (65) during the first half against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

#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.

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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.