Line can’t allow six sacks, 12 quarterback hits
The Falcons’ offensive line started strong this season, but is showing signs of slippage.
The pass protection has weakened and the unit didn’t open holes for the running game in the past two losses.
The line will face a stiff test from the Panthers’ defensive front, which had six sacks and 12 quarterbacks hits against the last meeting against the Falcons, a 34-3 loss in Mike Smith’s last game as head coach.
Only left tackle Jake Matthews and right tackle Ryan Schraeder returned from that group.
The Panthers’ front also is getting a boost from the return of defensive end Charles Johnson, who missed eight weeks with a hamstring injury. He’s rounding back into form as he played more than 50 snaps against the Saints last week.
“He did a nice job for us and put some pressure on the quarterback,” Panthers coach Ron Rivera said. “He almost got a sack fumble, but the quarterback was able to get his arm free. He’s really worked himself back into that playing shape.”
Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short leads the team with seven sacks. Also, defensive tackle Star Lotulelei can be disruptive inside.
“(Short) has been playing very solid football for us,” Rivera said. “He’s doing a lot of good things, and it shows. We have gotten a good push from our defensive tackles, and they are playing good run defense. That’s one of the things we try and stress here, is playing good run defense.”
Falcons right guard Chris Chester has missed practice time with a shoulder and knee injury. Center Mike Person will help the guards at times.
Schraeder, who has struggled in the past against Johnson, must also turn in a strong game.
About the Author
Honored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his "long and distinguished reporting in the field of pro football," D. Orlando Ledbetter, Esq. has covered the NFL 28 seasons. A graduate of Howard University, he's a winner of Georgia Sportswriter of the Year and three Associated Press Sports Editor awards.
