The results have been fairly positive, but things have rarely gone smoothly for very long in the Raheem Morris era. As exciting and uplifting as performances have been in Atlanta, it’s been difficult getting to where they stand at the top of the NFC South. The defense has regressed as an overall unit from a year ago. While the offense has become efficient and reliable, the self-inflicted mistakes and Kirk Cousins’ limitations make them a unit that can’t be expected to carry them in every game. Balance is needed for the Falcons to maintain first place.
That starts with the defense not starting games so poorly.