Atlanta Falcons: 3 Reasons to take them seriously in 2018
By Cullen Crane
Pick your Poison
Funny phrase, pick your poison. And the origins of the saying are probably not what you think. In the mid-19th century, it was actually a reference to picking your drink of choice. Defensive coordinators may need a stiff drink when formulating a game plan against the Falcons this year as they decide who to take away from Matt Ryan.
Not since the “Greatest Show on Turf” has a quarterback had so many weapons at his disposal. At +2200, Ryan is more than an intriguing bet to become the MVP of the league again. Much of the attention surrounding the offense this offseason was paid to Julio Jones and his contract dispute. With the updating of Jones’ contract behind them the team, has had the full complement of personnel at camp from day one.
As fans closely watch the progression of the play-calling, they hope to see growth in a few key areas. Starting with the addition of Calvin Ridley, essentially a younger version of Jones, the expectations for a more vertical pass game should be realized. Tight end Austin Hooper has the chance to become the type of security blanket that Ryan found in future Hall-of-Famer Tony Gonzalez.
With so much attention being paid to Jones and Ridley, Hooper — who has increased his production steadily over his first two years — has the chance to find huge holes in the middle of opposing defenses. Without even mentioning Ito Smith, who was as productive a college player as No. 2 overall selection Saquon Barkely, the Falcons backfield will again be one of the better combinations in the league. All things considered, my feeling is the Falcon offense will again be the class of the NFL.