Falcons' ground game stalls after defenses load the box
Atlanta's rushing attack has averaged 95 yards over its last four games after opening at 181 yards per contest.
By Lily Carter ·
The Atlanta Falcons opened the season with the NFL's second-ranked rushing attack, averaging 181 yards per game behind Bijan Robinson and Brian Robinson Jr. That production has since dropped off sharply.
The change began in a Week 4 win at New Orleans, when the Falcons posted a second straight 200-yard rushing game. Defenses responded by stacking the line of scrimmage with heavier fronts and extra defenders near the line to take away designed runs. Over Atlanta's last four games, the Falcons have not topped 95 rushing yards in any of them, averaging 95 yards per game in that stretch.
The Falcons (5-2) carry a three-game losing streak into Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-3) at Raymond James Stadium, with kickoff set for 1 p.m.
Coordinator Todd Monken said opposing defenses have increased the number of defenders loading the box against heavy fronts to stop the run. He said the Falcons' success depends on blocking up front, adding that he has not seen the offense abandon the run in games where they were set up to run it.
Offensive coordinator Michael Penix Jr. said the Falcons have been aware of the coverage advantages and have not hidden what they are doing on the ground when the game gets good. He said the offense is starting to add more play-action passes off run fakes when the quarterback drops back.
Running back Bijan Robinson said defenses are loading the box to stop him and the offense, and that he will not change his goal. He said he will not change what he is trying to do toward that goal.
Wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge said opponents are not going to stop what the Falcons are trying to do. He said the Falcons will make a play when they need to, and that the offense is focused on execution and making a play when they need to.
Running back Brian Robinson Jr. said defenses are closing off passing windows between the backs and linebackers, and that he is not going to comment on scheme. He said he will not comment on what defenses are doing to take away the run.
Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution
