Atlanta Falcons: 5 Players to Watch vs. Washington

The Atlanta Falcons have the best offensive line through the first quarter of 2015, according to Pro Football Focus. This unit is exponentially better in 2015 thanks to the zone blocking scheme of Kyle Shanahan and the acquisitions made by the Atlanta front office.

The best player on the Atlanta Falcons offensive line has been second-year LT Jake Matthews. He’s become the franchise blind side protector in Year Two. Jake’s improvement has bolstered the overall effectiveness of the Falcons’ offensive line.

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QB Matt Ryan has ample time to throw with precession from the pocket. Atlanta can run the football with authority in 2015. The ZBS may have transformed the Falcons up front in 2015, but the play of Jake Matthews makes me feel great about the next several years of Atlanta Falcons football. We now have the necessary protection to keep Matt Ryan upright while he is in his prime as a passer.

Look for Matthews to contain the Washington pass rush, maybe allowing one quarterback pressure on Sunday. He and Andy Levitre will dominate in run blocking in at least one sweep to the left side, allowing either RB Devonta Freeman or Tevin Coleman to break a 20+ yarder on the Redskins’ defense.

Next: Don't Forget About Our Offensive Leader