Atlanta Falcons
fromThe Falcoholic
5 hours agoFalcons snap counts on Week 2
Falcons prioritized a heavy running attack and tight-end blocking, rotated the defensive line to create pressure, and trusted core defenders with high snap counts.
The Falcons defense delivered an outstanding performance against the Vikings, with the rookie class carrying the day. Kevin Knight and Allen Strk break down the victory, including the awesome day for the defense, the dominance of the ground attack, Zac Robinson's offense continuing to struggle in the red zone, and more. Fellow Falcoholics, welcome to another episode of The Falcoholic Live!
This game has been a testament to the recent youth movement that general manager Terry Fontenot has initiated on defense, utilizing a significant amount of draft capital over the past two years. James Pearce, Jr. and Jalon Walker have both shown their pass-rushing chops, earning at least a half sack apiece. Brandon Dorlus and Ruke Orhorhoro show their versatility along the line, and even Arnold Ebiketie has shown how reliable he can be.
There is plenty to ponder for the Falcons following their disappointing, narrow opening week defeat. The offense was in flux for stretches in the game, as Michael Penix Jr. did what he could to elevate an offense missing Darnell Mooney and adjusting to life without Kaleb McGary. For the offense to be as stagnant as it did raises concerns about the ceiling and floor of this unit.
There's a relatively small sample size to work off of here, but between the XFL and NFL, Parker Romo has been accurate and has shown a quality leg, hitting his lone 50-plus try in 2024 and connecting from 57 in a then-longest XFL field goal try. Right now, the Falcons are getting him in the building to ensure they have a fallback option a phone call away
A total mismanagement of a declining roster between Thomas Dimitroff and Dan Quinn in 2019 and 2020 led to a complete revamp in 2021. Two years of slow progression led to a season with credible expectations in 2023. That came crashing down in a division there for the taking, leading to Arthur Smith's dismissal. As exciting as the beginning of last season was under Raheem Morris, another late-season collapse resulted in another wasted opportunity to make the playoffs.
Walker and Pearce Jr. are expected to inject life into a pass rush that's been historically nonexistent. Watts and Bowman are already penciled in as starters in a secondary that features Second-Team All-Pros Jessie Bates and A.J. Terrell. And Nelson, despite an uneven preseason, will almost certainly be called upon to contribute in some fashion until Storm Norton returns from injury.
NFL Week 1 is here, with the Falcons facing the Bucs in an NFC South showdown on Sunday. Kevin Knight and Tre'Shon Diaz discuss the latest news, including the first depth chart, Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman starting, Bralen Trice to IR, and other roster moves. Then the duo pivot to expectations for Atlanta's opening game against Tampa Bay. Fellow Falcoholics, welcome to another episode of the Dirty Birds and Brews podcast!
Despite so much uncertainty around the passing game in recent seasons, Robinson has managed 3,350 yards from scrimmage and 23 total touchdowns. Robinson's value goes far beyond being a workhorse running back. He's a consistent part of the passing game with 158 targets over his first two seasons, and also brings significant value as a pass-blocking option. In fact, Los Angeles Rams starter Kyren Williams was the only running back in the NFL with more pass-blocking snaps than Bijan last season,
The Falcons have their first 53-man roster of the 2025 NFL season! Kevin Knight and Tre'Shon Diaz discuss who made the cut and who didn't, Kaleb McGary out for the season, the biggest surprises, and the moves we're still expecting to see before Week 1. Fellow Falcoholics, welcome to another episode of the Dirty Birds and Brews podcast! You can also listen to all of our video shows in an audio-only podcast format, available on all your favorite podcast platforms
With that being said, Morris is a more valuable player than it might seem. He was better at right tackle than he was at left tackle, and the 2023 third-round pick will make $2.6 million over the next two seasons. In a market in which Dan Moore and current Chiefs lineman Jaylon Moore received $15 million or more per season in free agency, Morris would have meaningful value if he were on the open market.
Austin Simmons demonstrated his composure and skill in two key relief appearances, significantly impacting the expectations for Ole Miss football this year. His performance against Georgia in both baseball and football showcased his capabilities as a pivotal player, instilling optimism for his future contributions.
In just one year, some homeowners faced almost double their home's value, leading to increased property taxes that threaten their homes with foreclosure if unpaid.