Atlanta Falcons: 5 Things Learned From Week 1

Sep 14, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) catches a pass past Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Byron Maxwell (31) in the fourth quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Julio Jones is a Top 5 WR in Football

Julio Jones was a difference maker for the Atlanta Falcons on offense Monday Night.  Jones caught 8 passes for 141 yards and 2 touchdown receptions.  It didn’t matter where he lined up, Jones was able to make the necessary play for the Atlanta Falcons in the receiving game.

His two touchdown passes were as different as they come.  Jones’ first score was essentially a four-yard screen pass inside the red zone, where Julio was able to cross-up a defender in the slot for an easy touchdown.  The other was more in line with what we’re accustomed to seeing out of Julio Jones: a 20+ yard vertical strike down the sideline.  The second TD reception gave the Atlanta Falcons a commanding 20-3 near halftime.

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This was the second time in the last calendar year where Julio Jones outclassed an elite shutdown corner.  He exposed Arizona Cardinals CB Patrick Peterson last season and made life difficult for CB Byron Maxwell last night. Jones has evolved from strictly a vertical threat into a complete, perennial Pro Bowl wide receiver in five seasons.

His skill set at wideout solidifies his spot as one of the best in the National Football League.  He made his teammates better last night.  Roddy White had a great game with over 80 receiving yards coming off elbow surgery.  Both TE Levine Toilolo and WR Leonard Hankerson benefited from Jones being in double coverage in third down situations.  Julio Jones was the best player in last night’s game against the Eagles, without question.

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