Blogging Dirty
FanSided

Atlanta Falcons vs. Seattle Seahawks: To-Do Checklist for Divisional Round

By Eric Robinson

Oct 16, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman (25) defends Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) during the second quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 16, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman (25) defends Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) during the second quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
5 of 5
Next
Dec 18, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) reacts with Tevin Coleman (26) and Patrick DiMarco (42) after scoring a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the 49ers 41-13. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) reacts with Tevin Coleman (26) and Patrick DiMarco (42) after scoring a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the 49ers 41-13. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Production from the supporting cast 

While the Falcons posted 362 total yards and 24 points on Seattle, a few names were a non-factor in Week 6.

We all know of the Ryan and Julio Jones combination that connected seven times for 139 yards and a touchdown in the first matchup. Not-so-good was the combination of running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman. The pair only produced 50 rushing yards and 17 receiving yards. None the better was Taylor Gabriel and his one catch for six yards and a concussion. Additionally, rookie tight end Austin Hooper failed to record a catch.

Each of these players has an essential role in this playoff showdown.

More from Blogging Dirty

In the last three games, Freeman and Coleman have combined for at least 140 rushing yards. Even with the bye week, that type of production must continue. Both Gabriel and Hooper are recovering from late season injuries. The two have also seen expanded roles in the Falcons offense since the week six contest in Seattle.

So while Atlanta can give Seattle a run with Jones and Ryan, it’s the fireworks from the other skill position weapons that will make the difference. The Falcons nearly knocked off Seattle back in Week 6 and without any big plays from non-offensive stars.

Home/Atlanta Falcons News