ATL Standard

The Atlanta Falcons' defense is focused on increasing turnovers as they approach the final four games of the regular season. The team has only managed one takeaway in their last five games, a period during which they also secured just one victory.

Inside linebacker Nate Landman emphasized the importance of turnovers, stating, "The ball is the most important thing in this league, and turnover margin drastically impacts win percentage." He noted that improving their turnover margin is a weekly focus for the defense.

Currently tied for 23rd in takeaways with 11 this season, the Falcons have found success when forcing turnovers, having recorded at least one in five of their six wins. Turnover drills are prioritized in practice to address this area.

Landman has contributed three forced fumbles this season, ranking second on the team behind safety Jessie Bates III. Together, they formed what they call the "Bloody Knuckles Crew" due to their ability to force fumbles. Bates leads with four forced fumbles and two interceptions but hasn't had a takeaway since Week 8 against Tampa Bay.

While the defense seeks more takeaways, the offense has struggled with ball security, turning it over ten times since Week 8. Quarterback Kirk Cousins alone has thrown eight interceptions during this period.

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris highlighted the critical role of turnovers: "The biggest thing when you talk about overall production is the turnovers," he said. "The turnovers in the National Football League will absolutely kill you."

With playoff hopes still alive and four games remaining, creating turnovers remains a key priority for Atlanta. They aim to improve after failing to secure any takeaways against Minnesota and will face Las Vegas next—a team leading the NFL with 25 turnovers this season.

Reflecting on missed opportunities against Minnesota, Morris remarked, "No doubt that was a part of our game plan (against the Vikings): try to go for some turnovers, get the ball back... We missed some big-time track opportunities yesterday by big-time players."