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Sunday, December 22, 2024

Falcons defense shines against Chargers with impressive pass rush performance

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Steve Cannon Vice Chairman - Ambse | Atlanta Falcons Website

Steve Cannon Vice Chairman - Ambse | Atlanta Falcons Website

The Atlanta Falcons showcased a strong defensive performance against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 13, with four players combining to sack quarterback Justin Herbert five times. This marked the team's best output since Week 16 of the previous season when they recorded six sacks against the Indianapolis Colts. The five sacks were also the second-highest number Herbert has faced this season, following a game against the Cleveland Browns.

In Week 13, Atlanta achieved a pressure rate of 41.4% with 12 QB pressures on 29 dropbacks, their second-best performance by pressure rate this season. The key difference was their ability to convert these pressures into sacks, achieving a 17.2% sack rate, which was their highest mark of the season and their best since Week 6 of last year.

"Atlanta's defense was able to marry its rush with its coverage and was able to turn the negative play generated by each sack into a positive outcome," stated an analysis of their performance.

The Falcons effectively limited Herbert's scrambling abilities as well. In Weeks 1-12, they had one of the worst defensive EPA on scrambles but did not lose any EPA to scrambles in Week 14. According to Next Gen Stats, Herbert failed both scramble attempts with a passer rating of 39.6.

Defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake praised A.J. Terrell's role in these efforts: "He is playing 'big-time football' right now and is a true lockdown corner."

Despite offensive struggles, Atlanta's defense held the Chargers to just two first downs and only allowed them 42 yards in the second half. They forced nine fumbles this year and tied for the league lead with at least two forced fumbles in four games.

Lake emphasized adjustments during games: "It's about starting fast and bringing aggression but also finishing fast as well." As they prepare for upcoming challenges, including facing an efficient Minnesota Vikings offense, maintaining consistent defensive strength throughout games remains crucial for Atlanta.

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