The X-factor: Falcons second-, third-level defenders must play well
The Falcons’ linebacker and safeties have a tough challenge against the Panthers.
With a playoff berth on the line Sunday, they are the X-factors in the game.
They must contain quarterback Cam Newton’ runs, stop running back/wide receiver Christian McCaffrey and contend with tight end Greg Olsen, who missed the teams’ first matchup with a broken foot.
"Probably one, he's the biggest and the strongest,” free safety Ricardo Allen said of the dual threat that Newton presents. “He's that guy that I think is one of the best players with the ball in his hands. He's a big dog that can get away from anybody, so that's a fight within it all."
Defensive coordinator Marquand Manuel pointed out that the Falcons’ linebackers had to prepare for New Orleans speed-back Alvin Kamara in two of the past three games. The Panthers used McCaffrey in a similar fashion.
McCaffrey, a rookie from Stanford, has nearly 200 touches.
“He’s a dynamic guy running the ball and (catching passes) out of the backfield,” Manuel said.
When Olsen was out with a broken foot, Newton had to utilize his other receivers.
“He has confidence in a lot more players now than just Olsen,” Manuel said. “Years back, you knew when it was a ‘gotta to have it’ moment, the ball was going to him. Now, they’ll use multiple guys. He’ll use everybody. That’s what made him a little unique from that standpoint, and he’ll run it when he has to.”
Olsen had three catches in the 22-19 win over the Bucs last week.
“We’ve seen how they are piecing him back into the offense,” Manuel said. “You have to respect that. He’s still the guy. You have to respect the man for what he’s done.”
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.
