Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan has been sacked nine times and hit 17 times in two games this season. His protection should improve with the likely return of Todd McClure at center.
Here’s a brief Q&A involving Ryan and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s D. Orlando Ledbetter.
Q: What’s your assessment of Tampa Bay’s secondary?
A: When you look in their secondary, Ronde Barber is a guy who's still playing at a high level. He's been around for a long time and is really one of the better guys in the slot. Aqib Talib is a talented guy, a long, rangy corner on the outside … physical, good instincts, can make some plays.
Q: Is it fair to have a divisional game the week after a tough game against Philadelphia?
A: I'll tell you this much, it's always tough playing against Tampa. They're a good physical football team, especially going down there. It's a hard place to play in the division, but it's a fun place to play.
Q: Do you expect some better protection from your offensive line?
A: Joe [Hawley] has done a great job filling in for Todd [McClure] the last couple of weeks. It's a lot on a center's shoulders. They do a lot of things in terms of communications, setting run calls up and pass protections. I think he's stepped in and done a nice job. Garrett Reynolds, for his first two games, has done a really nice job, too. I think we're improving week-to-week, and that's what you want to see.
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