Falcons second-year cornerback Robert Alford had four penalties called against him in the New York Giants game.

“We’ve got to make sure that Robert and all of our defensive players understand how the game is going to be called and what is defensive holding and what is illegal contact,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said. “Again, this is a point of emphasis. It’s been going on all through the preseason and has continued through the regular season.”

Smith put the blame on the coaching staff.

“Obviously, we haven’t done a good enough job as a coaching staff and I haven’t done a good enough job in letting Robert Alford know how the game is going to be officiated and what he needs to do,” Smith said.

About the Author

Keep Reading

With Michael Penix Jr. out for the season, Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins — pictured attempting a pass against the Panthers on Sunday — will start Sunday against the Saints' seventh-ranked passing defense. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

Featured

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones — pictured at an August rally in Peachtree City that also featured Vice President JD Vance — appears to have scored another legal victory over gubernatorial rival Attorney General Chris Carr in their battle over campaign finance issues. (Arvin Temkar/AJC 2025)

Credit: Arvin Temkar / AJC