The Atlanta Falcons are looking for their signal-caller Matt Ryan to be better in his decision-making in 2016. ‘Matty Ice’ hasn’t played with that chill in his veins since making the playoffs in 2012.
Seven of Ryan’s 16 interceptions in 2015 came inside the red zone, bringing potential scoring drives to a screeching halt. In his second year in offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan’s offense, he should have a better understanding of where to go with the football.
The addition of wide out Mohamed Sanu to complement three-time Pro Bowl receiver Julio Jones should open up the offense and let the Falcons’ quarterback be more aggressive throwing the ball down the field.
Ryan has yet to throw for a touchdown in the preseason and he threw an interception into the red-zone in Thursday’s preseason game against the Miami Dolphins. This caused Falcons fans everywhere to feel as if he is still suffering from his 2015 infection of ‘red-zone-turnover-itis.’
“That is totally not the case.”’ Head Coach Dan Quinn said. “I can’t stress that enough. As for a ‘recurring theme,’ that just hasn’t been the case.”
Quinn seems to be unfazed by the inconsistency of the offense and his quarterback’s inability to get comfortable passing the ball in the first three preseason games.
“I’m pumped that we had some adversity come our way and not play at our best,” Quinn said. “I’d much rather have this conversation now, where I can get on them in the meeting room today and expect to see the results change this week in practice.”
With all the moves made by the Falcons, it will be imperative that they take full advantage of a division that is wide open. If they want to reach their goal of scoring 30 points a game, it will require their leader to make smart decisions with the football… especially in the red zone.