Falcons vs. Seahawks Preview: Can Atlanta’s Inconsistent Defense Contain Geno Smith?

There are a number of the reason why the Atlanta Falcons are 0-2 getting into their Week 3 match in opposition to the 1-1 Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. However the inconsistencies of the group’s protection are essentially the most important ones.

Via the primary two weeks of the season, the Falcons are giving up a mean of 29 factors – a bloated quantity. And but Atlanta has showcased flashes of being a strong defensive group. 

Earlier than giving up 17 fourth-quarter factors, the Falcons held the New Orleans Saints to 10 factors by the primary three durations. And earlier than holding the Los Angeles Rams to 3 factors throughout the fourth quarter on Sunday, Atlanta gave up 28 factors by the primary three quarters.

The Falcons’ inconsistent protection has left coach Arthur Smith annoyed however not discouraged.

“Generally there are changes that should be made,” Smith stated. “Nevertheless it’s going to come back all the way down to that, we’ve obtained to get off the sphere on third down, and we’ve obtained to do it for a whole sport and deal with the scenario. … It’s not simply third down within the subject. You possibly can argue that the distinction has been third down within the crimson zone. That’ll proceed to be the problem and we’ll proceed to work to enhance there on each offense and protection.”

Though the Seahawks now not characteristic nine-time Professional Bowler Russell Wilson beneath heart, quarterback Geno Smith presents a sort-of problem for the Falcons’ protection. 

Regardless of arising brief to the San Francisco 49ers in a Week 2 defeat, Geno has accomplished 81.0 p.c of his passes for 392 yards and two touchdowns.   

“I give him numerous credit score — he’s a really resilient participant, he’s taking part in rather well proper now, and there’s quite a bit to be stated for that,” Smith stated. “It doesn’t go the best way he in all probability envisioned when he obtained drafted and he comes again and retains swinging, and I’ve obtained a lot respect for guys like that.”

Smith led the Seahawks to a 17-16 victory over the Denver Broncos at Lumen Area in Week 1 as he threw for 195 yards and two touchdowns within the win.

What made Smith’s efficiency notable was his potential to deal with the Broncos’ protection.

Denver blitzed 12 occasions en path to recording eight pressures and two sacks, however Smith nonetheless managed to complete the night time on an environment friendly 23 for 28. The Falcons will look to stress him on Sunday, too – and can look to place collectively 4 quarters of sound protection.

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