Falcons coach Mike Smith is tired of seeing yellow.

In the exhibition opener, the Falcon had nine penalties for 82 yards. They had 10 for 89 yards against the Texans in the second game.

“A lot of it has to do with the points of emphasis that the league has put out this offseason,” Smith said. “Illegal contact and hands to the face are probably the two biggest points of emphasis. They are definitely calling it differently.”

Smith believes the Falcons will adjust.

“It’s a learning experience for all of us,” Smith said. “We’ve got to see how the game is officiated. But we’ve had entirely too many penalties in the first two games, not only watching Falcons but watching preseason action, penalties are way up. If they stay at those numbers it’s going to be a long, long football game.”

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Falcons quarterback coach D.J. Williams addresses members of the press after the Atlanta Falcons’ joint practice with the Tennessee Titans at the Falcons Practice Facility in Flowery Branch on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025.
(Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

Featured

Prosecutor Skandalakis has previously suggested that pursuing criminal charges against President Donald Trump may not be feasible until after he leaves office in 2029. (Craig Hudson/Politico/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Credit: Bloomberg via Getty Images