Atlanta Falcons Defense: Week 12 Grades Vs New Orleans

Atlanta Falcons Defense (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
Atlanta Falcons Defense (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta Falcons (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

Bottom Line

The Atlanta Falcons defense had their ups and downs, in the game against the rival sAints. They did an admirable job on third down, holding New Orleans under 50% at 5/11. Two sacks and one turnover forced, isn’t a bad showing.

The most concerning thing about the Atlanta Falcons Defense, is the fact they are hemorrhaging yards on the ground. They have given up at least 120 yards combined yards to opposing runners for three weeks in a row. For a defense that has struggled to stop the pass, stopping the run is critical.

Pro bowl linebacker Deion Jones being out is part of the problem. Safety Keanu Neal being out doesn’t help at all either. The bigger concern is the next man up hasn’t produced as needed, nor have the incumbent starters stepped up as expected.

Notable

Damontae Kazee did not grade well enough or poor enough, to make our high or low flyer lists. It is definitely worth mentioning that he intercepted his NFL leading sixth pass of the season Thursday night.

Related Story. It's Time to Move on From Cornerback Robert Alford. light

Who played well and who didn’t on defense in your opinion? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below. Atl All Day will have more on the Atlanta Falcons defeat and their upcoming matchup against the Baltimore Ravens at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

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