Opportunities will come for Falcons’ Norwood

By Adam Sweeney  |   Friday, November 07, 2008  |  Comments( 0 )

Atlanta Falcons
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Chalk it up to a trend in the NFL, but the Miami Dolphins aren't the only team using the "Wildcat" formation. Last week against Oakland, Atlanta running back Jerious Norwood lined up at the quarterback, wide receiver and running back positions. With Michael Turner taking more carries in his career than he has been used to, offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey must find a way to lighten the load. The days of a single back carrying the running game are gone and for good reason. When you see the impact it has had on players like Larry Johnson and LaDainian Tomlinson recently, it only makes sense to share the wealth. For the Falcons, that means enter Norwood.

Commentary: Norwood has always been one of those players on the cusp of big things. He squandered a chance last year to solidify a starting spot, and this season -- much like with Turner -- it has been feast or famine. That may change as Norwood gets more third-down looks and carries late in the season. The schedule would almost beg for it in upcoming games against New Orleans, Denver and San Diego. But it is how well he responds against solid run defenses like those of Tampa Bay, Minnesota and Carolina which will decide Norwood's fate.

Fan Pulse: Falcons fans are praying to the heavens that the Saints will pick up cornerback DeAngelo Hall, an ex-Atlanta Pro Bowler whom the Raiders just released after a disappointing half-season.

Fantasy Football Commentary: Quarterback Matt Ryan, wide receiver Roddy White and Turner are all nice plays this week. The Saints give up 24.4 points a game, which means touchdowns can be had by Atlanta.

Injury Watch: LT Todd Weiner was limited in practice Wednesday with a knee injury. He is probable for Sunday's game against the Saints.
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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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