Falcons’ defense must learn how to pick apart one-armed birds

By Adam Sweeney  |   Tuesday, October 07, 2008  |  Comments( 3 )

Atlanta Falcons
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Matt Ryan and the Falcons are surely pleased about their 27-24 road win over the Packers in Week 5, but no Atlanta defender should be upbeat about his performance against banged-up Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Because of a sprained right shoulder, Rodgers was a game-time decision entering Sunday; nevertheless, he looked like the Six Million Dollar Man in throwing for 313 yards, three touchdowns and only one interception.

Commentary: Star players like linebacker Keith Brooking have been especially disappointing in their inability to stop opposing offenses. For a 3-2 team that has paid big to get high-profile players, it's surely sad for fans to see them allow so much yardage. The Falcons are giving up 347.4 yards per game, which is 23rd in the NFL.

End John Abraham has been the lone defensive highlight so far. In fact, he already has seven sacks in just five games and will likely top his career-high total of 10 for a season.

Fan Pulse: Dirty Bird Nation is wondering why the Falcons didn't blitz Rodgers: http://life.atlantafalcons.com/index.php?showtopic=3805986.

Fantasy Football Commentary: Running back Michael Turner seems to only do well on odd weekend games. In Weeks 1, 3 and 5, he ran for 445 yards. Conversely, in Weeks 2 and 4, he amassed only 98. It's Week 6, which isn't good news if you pay attention to this theory. If that's not enough, consider that the Falcons' next foe -- Chicago -- is fourth in the league in run defense.

Injury Watch: Center Todd McClure injured his calf in Sunday's game but returned to finish in the win.
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About Adam Sweeney

Adam Sweeney spent 4 years as an opinions and arts & entertainment columnist with the Lone Star Lutheran, also working with Sports Illustrated.com. Along with his work on Realfootball 365 he currently is a contributor for Film School Rejects, SLAM Online, Talkhoops.net, and C-Heads Magazine.
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