Atlanta Falcons Ito Smith Could Play Bigger Role Than Expected
By Kit Anderson
The Atlanta Falcons are headed into the new season with two very big new weapons on offense. Calvin Ridley and Ito Smith will both be big weapons for the team.
Ito Smith is thought to be the Atlanta Falcons replacement for Tevin Coleman. While that may be true, he could be on the roster to serve as the backup running back. We know the team will look to use Coleman more so than they did last season.
Using him out wide or in the backfield with Devonta Freeman is an idea they are likely to use. Imagine at any given time Atlanta having Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, Devonta Freeman, and Tevin Coleman all on the field at the same time.
If that doesn’t have you excited you most likely are not a Falcon’s fan in which case now would be a very good time to become one.
Ito Smith is an explosive joystick of a running back who uses his quickness to evade would-be tacklers. He would be a nice change of pace running back to give Freeman and Coleman breathers.
His hands are not the best in the world but he can catch the football and his ability to run after the catch will almost assuredly have him involved in the passing game.
Using Ito to see if he can replace Coleman will be the Falcon’s best plan of attack. Along with allowing them to keep their top backs rested and giving Smith a chance to break a big play.
While Calvin Ridley was the flashy addition Smith is used to being underrated and will prove his value to Atlanta. He may have been the most underrated running back in the draft and will show his explosive speed and ability to break big plays.
The Falcons added two great weapons now the question is can their offensive coordinator utilize them?