The Atlanta Falcons are 3-2 after a bounce back team win as they outlast the Houston Texans with a comeback two-minuet drive from quarterback Desmond Ridder to set up Younghoe Koo for the game winning field goal. With another Victory Monday behind us, it's time to turn our attention towards Sam Howell and the inconsistent Washington Commanders. The Falcons should be able to take advantage of DC's inconsistent play, but they have their own inconsistent issues to resolve. Luckily for the Falcons, they'll be at Mercedes Benz, their comfort zone this season.
Sam Howell hasn't played horribly per say, though he's created sacks by holding onto the ball too long, but the team's play has been inconsistent so far this season. With a record of 2-3 and an embarrassing lost against the division rival Chicago Bears, they're looking for an opportunity to get things back in track. Hopefully the Falcons pass rush won't give them the chance to do so by putting Howell on the ground as well as continuing to stop the run.
Offensively, the Falcons have to get going early and sustain drives to control the clock and keep that Commanders pass rush at bay. And in order to do that, the pass protection by the offensive line (as well as the Tight Ends in max protection) has to top tier. Last week against Houston, the pass protection was improved, especially in the second half which led to Desmond Ridder's most successful passing game in his career so far with over 300 yards for the first time.
The Atlanta Falcons will kick off against the Washington Commanders at 1pm on CBS. You can get all of your Atlanta Falcons updates from 92.9 The Game on Audacy.com or the Audacy app.