FLOWERY BRANCH – New Orleans coach Sean Payton spoke with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Wednesday.
Here’s what he had to say:
Q: Are you pleased with the changes in your secondary?
A: We've had a couple. A lot of times it's really based on the package that you're in. Most teams, defensively will have two or three different packages that they'll play and I thought our guys handled it well. Each week, we are really trying to look closely at what we think is the best group of guys on either side of the ball, who can play in the sub, play in the base or maybe in some of the other odd looks that we're in. Fortunately, it kind of goes hand in hand with the front. We got some pressure on the quarterback to help create some turnovers.
Q: What do you see from the Falcons?
A: Obviously, it's a division game and you're a little more familiar with the opponent. I would say as we break down their last six or seven weeks, you are seeing a team that is playing better run defense. Their offensive production over the past six or seven weeks has been outstanding. They've, of course, have played some really good teams. But I think it's a much different team than we played Week 1 and certainly I'm sure we've changed some as well. Both teams are dealing with a few injuries, which is pretty common in this stage of the season. You can see some of the changes as you start studying the tape.
Q: How are the Saints dealing with this playoff scenario?
A: We are really focusing on playing our best football this weekend. Obviously, it's an important game for both teams. It's a divisional game, beyond that, we've been an 11-win team on the road against a seven-win team before and lost in that first-round. At this stage in the season, it's about improving and correcting the mistakes from this past weekend and really trying to put your best foot forward and play your best football.
Q: How has running back Mark Ingram played this season?
A: I would say that he's been pretty consistent. He's had a real good year. There have been a game or two where we fell behind and maybe his production was off, but he's been a threat in the running game. He's does a good job with protections and ball security. I like his passion. He's someone who enjoys playing.
Q: Marques Colston always seems to give the Falcons trouble. How has he been playing for you?
A: He's a veteran player and he understands what we are trying to do. We have to be smart about how we practice him. He's a big target and he's got a good feel for man and zone defenses. Each week, whether if it's in the red zone or third down, you look closely at how you can put a few things in (the game plan.)
Q: How has tight end Jimmy Graham’s blocking improved?
A: We'll try to mix things up. Each week it varies based on who's in the game.
Q: What have you seen out of Matt Ryan over the past couple of weeks?
A: He's played really well. The timing of his delivery and the ball comes out very quick. He does a great job with their no-huddle. He gets to the line and looks to get them in the best play. He's very efficient with that. I would say the protection is noticeable. When we do the recent study verses the first half of the season, they are doing a great job of protecting him. He's got that feel and he understands where guys are. So, he's got a strong arm. He makes all of the throws that you want. He can avoid. He can flush, run and extend the play. I think that's why you see him playing so well.
Q: What have you seen from cornerback Desmond Trufant?
A: That's one player that I have a circle around. His growth, just in the year and half, two years really, you see him going up against the team's best receiver so he's not just playing on the right side or the left side. He's got very good feet. He's also smart and you can definitely see the improvement in his play and production. He's a willing tackler. I'd say, a very good tackler.
FALCONS FAN MAILBAG: We take your questions from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Friday.
ICYMI: In case you missed it
GAME STORY: Steelers knock Falcons out of first place with 27-20 wi n
QUOTEBOARD: What the Falcons had to say after the loss to the Steelers
SIDEBAR: Falcons slow Bell but not Steelers wide receivers
SIDEBAR: A franchise record for Roddy White, but no reason to celebrate
COLUMN: The blame for lose No. 9 falls on Matt Ryan -- Mark Bradley
NOTEBOOK: Jones, Moore held out with injuries
BY THE NUMBERS: Steelers 27, Falcons 20
UP NEXT: The New Orleans Saints at the Superdome where the Falcons are 1-6 under Coach Smith
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