Atlanta Prepares for Playoffs

The Falcons stay focused, hoping to clinch the top seed in the NFC

By Doug Knopf

They were not the favorite coming into the season and they are not the favorite coming out of the season, but the Falcons are a team that the rest of the NFL should be afraid of. After a solid win against Detroit, Atlanta has all phases clicking and is ready for the big dance.

AP Photo/ Rick Osentoski

Matt Ryan seemed to be back in his previous MVP form, completing 78% of his passes and throwing for four touchdowns in a game that Atlanta controlled. His performance is directly related to the success of this football team. In games Ryan dominates, the team seems to flourish on all cylinders. He controls time of possession and allows for defense to dictate the other team’s pace. Controlling the clock is one of Ryan’s best assets, and will certainly be important when he faces high-powered offenses in the playoffs.

Atlanta has what every team desires, a balanced attack. Michael Turner is the difference between the Falcons and most teams. Even though he averages less than 60 yards per game, team have to think about him and divert attention his way. Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Tony Gonzolez also allow Atlanta to spread the field and give options to Ryan. This team is dangerous, and after two games of more than 30 points, Atlanta should be the favorite in the NFC.

With a 13-3 record and home field advantage secured throughout the playoffs, people are overlooking the Falcons. The Packers, Seahawks, and 49ers are all taking the glory and getting all the media attention. The reason is because Atlanta is not completely dominant on either side of the ball. Even with all of their weapons on offense, they have not shown their ability to create significant havoc for a defense. On the flip side, their defense has not been stifling like the 49ers are known to be.

What is the Falcons biggest advantage may also be their downfall. They will basically rest their starters for two weeks which could get them completely off rhythm. Do not be surprised if this #1 seed falls again in their first game in the playoffs.