1. O-Line better … for a while: The Falcons' maligned offensive line took a lot of abuse in media (and presumably from coaches) after last week's loss at New Orleans. Some criticism also came from inside the locker room. NFL.com's Michael Silver quoted an unnamed Falcon as saying "our linemen are punks," referencing the fact that nobody quickly moved in to aid quarterback Matt Ryan after he was hit late in the Saints' game. Protection started out better against St. Louis, which has a superior front four to the Saints. Some of the credit can be attributed to the play-calling, as offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter called a number of screens and quick passing plays to neutralize the rush from the Rams' front four. But St. Louis started to get to Ryan in the second half and the Falcons' running game was non-existent without Steven Jackson (early thigh injury).
2. Defense — feh: The Falcons had some early defensive success, holding the Rams to a field goal until late in the third quarter. But it was difficult to tell how much of that could be attributed to self-inflicted wounds from the Rams: penalties and dropped passes, including one that led to Osi Umenyiora's interception and return for a touchdown. Injuries were an obvious factor. The Falcons lost three starters in Asante Samuel, Sean Weatherspoon and Kroy Biermann. Credit safety William Moore and backup linebacker Joplo Bartu with strong games.
3. Julio Jones, the savior: If Julio Jones is healthy, I would take his side in any debate about who's the best wide receiver in the NFL. Jones finished with 11 catches for 182 yards and a touchdown, an 81-yarder when the Rams foolishly decided to single cover him. With Roddy White limited by a high ankle sprain and running back Steven Jackson leaving early with a thigh injury, Jones was the lone major threat on the Falcons' offense — and the Rams' defense still couldn't contain him. He also had three catches on the Falcons' last key scoring drive that made it 31-17.
About the Author
