Since we’re in the holiday season and Thanksgiving has just passed, this is usually the time that we all count our blessings and say what we’re thankful for. In this case, I chose the team that has captured my heart and split it in 2 multiple times in my young life. Despite all of that I still root for ATL all day. Here are 3 things the Falcons and Falcon fans should be thankful for.
3 Atlanta Falcons Thanksgiving Thoughts
-
Playoff Position
The Falcons started the season on fire winning the first 3 games and then dropping the next 3 games thanks to offensive stalls in the second half. They got back on track in a sloppy rain game against the Jets to go 1-3 against the AFC East. The Falcons now sit at 7-4; if the playoffs started today, they would be a very good 6 seed in the tough NFC bracket. These last 5 games will be crucial because they are all division games except for an NFC clash with the Minnesota Vikings. These games will make or break the Falcons season and prove whether the Super Bowl hangover is a curse or a myth.
2. DEFENSE
My coaches at every level of football have told me to win football games, teams have to win 3 phases: offense, defense and special teams. While the Atlanta offense and special teams have struggled all year, the young, fast, physical defense has always held strong. Pro Football Focus ranks the Falcons defense fourth in the league and the offense second. Keanu Neal, De’Vondre Campbell, Deion Jones, Desmond Trufant and Grady Jarrett have formed the young core of this Falcons team and they come up with big plays every week to keep them among the upper crust of the league.
3. Devonta Freeman
At first I wanted go Julio Jones because he is one of the best in the league. Then, I wanted to go Matt Ryan because he is so dependable. The offensive line makes the whole offense go but they have had their ups and downs at times, especially first year starter Wes Schweitzer. But Devonta Freeman ignites the offense every time he’s on the field. Whether he is breaking off a big run, catching passes out the backfield or helping out in pass blocking, Freeman is a treasure who is well-deserving of his five-year extension. He has missed a few games this year with a concussion. While Tevin Coleman and Terron Ward have done a good job at filling in, neither of them can replace Freeman’s production in between the tackles. His presence has been missed but Falcons fans are thankful for him and cannot wait for his return.
Image Credit:
Embed from Getty Images
