Atlanta Falcons’ Complete Self-Destruction vs. Carolina Panthers Will Cost Mike Smith His Job
Dale Zanine-USA Today Sports
I don’t know what is more humiliating: Matt Ryan throwing two pick-sixes in a game or the all-around terrible play by the Atlanta Falcons. I’ll say it is a combination of both.
The Falcons came out completely flat against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday in a must-win situation. Knowing that a playoff berth and divisional title was at stake, Atlanta displayed minimal effort. The running game for the Falcons was nonexistent, and the offensive line could not provide much protection for Matty Ice as he was pummeled for six sacks and 12 QB hits.
To the Panthers’ defense credit, they are among the tops in the league in pass rush and run stoppage and ultimately they were the key to the blowout. However, that does not excuse the poor execution by the Falcons’ offense. The defense did not fare any better, allowing yet another 50-plus rushing yard game for Cam Newton.
The questions now are: What areas of focus need to be addressed for the Falcons moving forward and has Mike Smith coached his last game in Atlanta?
The answer to the first question is unclear for now. However, after last night’s performance for the Falcons, I’m pretty sure it is a forgone conclusion that Smith is out as head coach. It is unfortunate to see his tenure as head coach end in such a thud, but it is the NFL. All I can say now is all the best to Mr. Smith in his future coaching endeavors.
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