Seattle coach Pete Carroll spoke with the Atlanta media via conference call on Wednesday.
Here’s what he had to say:
On what he’s seen from the Falcons so far in 2016:
“Well I think they’re on fire right now. They’re playing together really well; they’re playing as a team. It’s complementary football with both sides coming through. They’re taking care of (the football), turning it over (on defense) like you want. The team is really tough. The skill guys are good, as are the special teams. It’s obviously highlighted by the offense and how they’re firing on all cylinders. It’s pretty impressive.”
On if defending Atlanta’s offense is a “pick your poison” scenario:
“Oh, yeah. It doesn’t help us at all. It makes it really hard. They’re running the ball well enough and doing a good job protecting the quarterback, so everybody’s available in the throwing game.”
On Dan Quinn’s defense and how it’s performed of late:
“I think they’re doing a really good job. They’ve had to overcome some injuries that really calls on your depth and teaching during the week. Really, to adjust like they have, and play such a good game in Denver against a terrific football team, it was really a great indicator that they got their act together.”
On the Falcons’ ability to overcome injuries, and if the versatility their defense has shown is what he’s used to seeing from a unit led by Quinn:
“Oh yeah, and a lot more. When he gets all his guys all going, it’ll just continue to grow. I thought (last week’s win) was a great indication of coaching. And (defensive coordinator) Richard (Smith) helped keep those guys together with all the changes they had. And to put it up against an undefeated team too and knock them down — that was really impressive.”
On how special it is to face off against Quinn, his former defensive coordinator:
“Well, it’s really fun. I never like anything more than playing against guys I know really well, competing against guys that I know. I think the world of Dan and the other guys on the staff that we know as well. It’s a great thrill to play against these guys. We’re looking forward to it, and it’s going to be a lot of fun.”
(Transcribed by Andrew Hirsh of AtlantaFalcons.com)
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