3 Things the Atlanta Falcons learned against Saints in week one

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Sep 11, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Marcus Mariota (1) drops back to pass against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Marcus Mariota will surprise teams this season

This site and others have broken down Mariota’s fumble and the mistakes the veteran made in his Atlanta Falcons debut. The lasting impression of Mariota, however, is a playmaker at quarterback who is going to help drive the Atlanta offense to upset a number of teams this season. Mariota looked improved from his time behind Derek Carr and is more than capable of starting the full season for Atlanta.

There are few defenses with better depth than the Saints, if Mariota can put together this type of game against one of the better defenses in the league he should be in for a great season. Atlanta’s focus is going to be on establishing the run game and Mariota is going to be a huge part of that. Play action and plays outside the pocket are what Arthur Smith was searching for last season and Matt Ryan wasn’t the guy for his system.

Desmond Ridder might be sitting for a full season learning behind the veteran and getting ready for next season.

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