Here’s the QB corner with Matt Ryan and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s D. Orlando Ledbetter:

Q: What’s your assessment of the Steelers’ defense?

A: Pittsburgh's defense is very good. They present a lot of different looks. They have great blitz packages. You have to work really hard in the film room and on the practice field to be able to get the communication to where you want it in terms of pass protection and the run game.

Q: What’s so difficult about the short week after a Monday night game?

A: I think guys have done a good job early this week with getting a jump-start on this week and getting ourselves prepared for Sunday. It's one of those things where at this time of the year, guys know how to get themselves right and how to prepare.

Q: What challenges does their zone-blitz scheme present?

A: They have good players. They have good players that fit their scheme very well.

Q: What are your thoughts on being able to secure a playoff berth?

A: One of the things at the beginning of every year is that you want to have a chance in December. You want to be in the mix, and we're in the mix. We have to focus on this week. We can't worry about the next two weeks or what's happening with other teams. We have to take care of our business. We are at the point in the season where it's time. It's time to play our best football.