The Falcons defensive line will be on the hot seat against the Colts, who have run the ball well through two games.
The Colts rushed 33 times for 203 yards in an overtime loss to the Chargers. They rushed 34 times for 167 yards in a win over the Titans.
The run wasn’t working early in both games, but they stayed with it and eventually busted some long gains. Marlon Mack, who had 24 carries for 174 yards against the Chargers, broke loose for a 64-yard gain.
Against the Titans, Jordan Wilkins had a 55-yard run.
The Colts run behind a strong offensive line that features left tackle Anthony Castonzo, left guard Quenton Nelson, center Ryan Kelly, right guard Mark Glowinski and right tackle Braden Smith.
“This is a good offensive line, all the way, across the board,” Falcons coach Dan Quinn said. “Both tackles, both guards and the center. They’ve got the size, they’ve got the ability to pull and get out on the edge.”
The Falcons did not control the edge when the Vikings rushed for 172 yards in the season opener. They held the Eagles to 49 yards, but they were not determined to run the ball.
“Run game-wise, they’ve got a big package,” Quinn said. “They’re able to utilize the guys getting out on the edge and those are some of the things that we’ve been impressed by.”
The Falcons know the Colts lean heavily on the rushing attack.
“Everything starts with trying to stop the run game up front and being physical,” defensive tackle Grady Jarrett said.
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