Falcons Seek Turnaround as Recent Struggles Cast a Shadow
The Atlanta Falcons have hit a rough patch, enduring four games without tasting victory. During this stretch, the team's offensive prowess has waned, averaging a meager 14.25 points per game. This dip in performance has sparked concern among fans and analysts alike, especially as the Falcons sit just a game behind the 7-6 Buccaneers in the standings.
Despite the offensive struggles, Atlanta's defense has shown resilience. From Week 11 to Week 13, they held an impressive rank of eighth in Expected Points Added per play, in non-garbage-time situations. This statistic underscores the defense’s capability to keep games competitive, a necessary trait given how nine of Atlanta's thirteen games have been within a single score entering the fourth quarter.
Yet, the offense has not been able to capitalize on such defensive efforts. The recent acquisition of Kirk Cousins, secured with a hefty $100 million fully guaranteed contract back in March, seemed a promising boost. However, Cousins' recent form has added to the Falcons’ woes. The quarterback has thrown eight interceptions without a single touchdown in his last four games. His struggles extend into crucial moments, evidenced by a mere 56 passer rating in the fourth quarters, with only two touchdowns and eight interceptions to his name. Completing 61.2% of his passes for an average of 6.20 yards in these critical periods further highlights the challenges Atlanta faces under center.
Cousins' historical performance gives some reason for optimism. In Atlanta, he has consistently recorded a 67% completion rate with 7.8 yards per attempt, and during his tenure in Minnesota, he maintained a completion rate of 67.8% with a 7.6-yard average. These statistics suggest that the ability is there, but translating past success into current results remains elusive.
In contrast to Cousins’ difficulties, the Falcons have invested in their future with the drafting of Michael Penix Jr. as the No. 8 overall pick last April. While the rookie quarterback's potential is yet untapped in the context of the current offensive intricacies, the expectation is that Penix Jr. will eventually emerge as a pivotal figure for the team.
The road ahead for Atlanta is anything but easy. Upcoming matchups against the Raiders, Giants, Commanders, and Panthers offer a landscape of opportunities and challenges. Each of these games carries with it the weight of playoff implications, as the Falcons strive to not only break their losing streak but also maintain relevance as postseason contenders.
The key to a turnaround may well lie in balancing their steadfast defense with an invigorated approach offensively. It's a delicate task, requiring both tactical adjustments and confidence-building within the squad. For the Falcons, rediscovering their winning formula is not just about ending a losing streak—it's about revitalizing a team brimming with potential and high expectations.