Despite the heart-breaking loss the Falcons showed they are better than many expected them to be. Dominating a very good Saints' defense and holding their talented offense to just ten points through the first three quarters. New quarterback, Marcus Mariota, had a little to do with the teams' success.
A large part of why the Falcons' offensive line didn't give up a sack was due to his mobility, rushing for 72 yards, a touchdown, and one lost fumble on just 12 carries. Mariota's legs have been a weapon of his since his Oregon Duck days. However, while being dynamic in the open field, his ability to run has caused issues before and could cause issues moving forward.
Chris Thomas, co-host of The Other Side of the Glass, spoke on Saturday on if Marcus Mariota can last a full 17-game season. His thoughts, "No."
Injuries are not new to the Falcons' new man under center. Mariota has missed multiple games throughout his career with injuries such as an AC joint sprain, a MCL sprain, a fractured fibula, quad strains, and more. Most of which come from his aggressive style when running the ball.
Heading into Week 2 Mariota was asked about sliding or avoiding contact and said, "I've been tentative in sliding, and I don't want to play that way."
Everyone loves a tough player. Every fan base wants that guy who relishes in the pain that is football, but not from the quarterback aka the most important man on the field.
Sliding is a tool made for the passer's protection. Mariota needs to learn to use it. Proving your toughness does not supersede your availability, and for someone who doesn't have the most secure job, being on the field to win games is more important than showing the fans you can take a hit.
