Falcons tackles Jake Matthews and Ryan Schraeder knew they’d have a big task in blocking Oakland’s heralded third-year defensive end Khalil Mack.
He lined up in front of the both them and also rushed over guard Chris Chester at least once on third down.
Mack finished with four tackles and two quarterback hits.
“They have a lot of talent, but we had good success through the air and running it,” Matthews said. “I think it’s a big confidence booster for our offense. We know what we are capable of. We have to continue doing it.”
The Falcons played more no-huddle offense in the first half of the 35-28 victory over the Raiders.
“We had a very distinct game plan that we felt good about,” Matthews said. “We felt very good about run and play-action passing. We executed really well. It’s a big confidence building. Going against a front that good with the big-time play makers that they have, leaves you feeling good getting a win.”
Schrader was elated after the game.
“Oh man, it was huge that we could move the ball on them,” Schraeder said. “The run game opened up. We didn’t always hit, but we just keep pushing through. They couldn’t stop our run game today. That was big time as far as slowing down the pass rushers. We got those guys on their heels a little bit.”
The Falcons went on a roll. They scored on six of the last seven possessions, including three straight touchdowns in the red zone.
“That feels good,” Schraeder said. “The fact that we scored 35 points and kind of controlled the game, most of the game, felt really good. It’s a good thing to build on.”
