Unfortunately, the Atlanta Falcons look a lot more like the Atlanta Falcons. After giving their fans hope of a good team, they have laid an egg in their two games entering their bye week.
It would be an understatement to say the losses to the Saints and Broncos were disappointing. The Saints game may have been close on the scoreboard but it didn't feel so on the field. And we all know what just happened at Mile High.
Raheem Morris needs to make some huge changes to his team if he wants to keep a playoff spot in December and January.
1. Bench Kaleb McGary for Storm Norton
Kaleb McGary has had his lunch handed to him these past two games. His lack of mobility is leaving Kirk Cousins exposed. Meanwhile, the solid pass protecting Storm Norton sits on the bench.
Norton has proved to be a valuable piece when injuries have occurred. We have seen no drop-off when he has had to take over and with how McGary is playing right now, he would be an upgrade.
Zac Robinson wants to run the ball—McGary's forte—but has been forced to get pass-happy so adjust the personnel.
2. Fire DC Jimmy Lake; Raheem Morris takes over defensive playcalling
This is a poorly coached defense. Despite having talent across the board, the Falcons defense has been awful.
They were especially awful on Sunday against the Broncos. They still couldn't generate any pressure, guys were running wide open, and no adjustments were made.
What has been particularly frustrating is the screen defense. In obvious screen situations, this defense has been picked apart. Coaches aren't alerting their players to the play, there is zero awareness on the field, and there is no integrity from the outside linebackers.
Quite simply, things aren't working and changes must be made. Raheem Morris made a living with the Rams for his overachieving defenses. It is time for him to take the play sheet.
3. Move Kaden Elliss to OLB, start DL Zach Harrison
Kaden Elliss is the only player on this team who has gotten consistent pressure—when given the opportunity. Why not move him to the edge and see what happens?
Elliss' communication would be missed in the middle of the field but Troy Andersen, assuming he is healthy, can take the reigns. The coaching staff needs to make this move because, again, what they are doing isn't working.
Don't forget, Kaden Elliss had seven sacks in his final season with the Saints. He knows how to rush the passer—which can't be said about his teammates.
As for Zach Harrison, he was the only player in Denver who looked like he wanted to be on the field. He has not been given the opportunities he deserves and it is time to make him the starter.
Hopefully, Harrison will be healthy coming out of the bye after he sustained an injury on Sunday.