Falcons running back Tevin Coleman is ready to carry the full load against Seattle and will be on the hot seat in the game.
He normally shares the job with Devonta Freeman, who’s in the concussion protocol for the second time this season.
Coleman had a career-high-tying 20 carries for a season-high 83 yards rushing in last Sunday’s 27-7 win over the Cowboys. Freeman was injured on the second play of the game.
That was just the ninth time over 34 NFL games that Coleman rushed 10 or more times in a game. Terron Ward will also be available to help Coleman.
“I don’t think it changes in term of the scheme or anything like that,” Ryan said. “We trust both of our guys, both in the run game and I don’t think anything changes in the run game for sure. I usually don’t even think about who’s in there when we call run plays.”
In the passing game, Freeman is more of an outlet receiver while Coleman can run deeper routes down the field.
“On pass plays, their skill sets are a little bit different but they both are really talented out of the backfield,” Ryan said. “I don’t think it changes all that much. It’s nice to have both of them for sure, but I don’t think it changes things too much.”
Freeman has 19 catches for 137 yards (9.7 yards per catch), while Coleman has 17 catches for 23 yards (11.9 yards per catch) and two touchdowns.
The Seahawks have heavily scouted Coleman.
“An explosive football player,” Seattle coach Pete Carroll said. “I thought he looked great last year. Of course, we watched everything from last year. We watched him play with great speed.
“Big play ability. A good catcher and route runner as well. He can do everything. I think the one-two punch they’ve had with Devonta has been dynamic…. he’s an explosive football player. We’ve taken a great look at him already and we’re going to treat him with great respect.”
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