Atlanta Falcons - end-of-season performance review

It's that time again, Coach Quinn and company.

I said before the season started, after you managed to get above a .500 winning percentage last season, that I'd be happy with a playoff appearance this season.

So, considering that the team went 11 - 5, won the NFC South, is the #2 seed in the NFL playoffs, and has a first round bye, I have to say that you have exceeded expectations. I would have been happy with a simple appearance in the Wild Card Round.

The offense is a monster. Whoever makes decisions about personnel needs to be high-fived, especially for acquiring Alex Mack at center. The offensive line has never been better, Ryan seems to be comfortable in the system, and the offense is running the ball and passing the ball effectively. Ryan's distributing the ball to whoever is open, instead of trying to force it to Julio Jones on every play, which has proven to be critical. Opposing defenses don't know who to cover. As far as the offense goes, I'm not really seeing any glaring weaknesses there that need to be addressed for next season.

Defensively, it's not quite as sunny. The defense has been inconsistent all season, though it played better over the last few games. But it still seems to go into a funk for extended periods.

Take, for example, last week's game against New Orleans. In the first half the defense dominated the Saints. Second half, not so much. The Saints were able to get back into the game and were within striking distance of winning it, because the Falcon pass rush disappeared, as did coverage of the Saints receivers. Brees had plenty of time to throw the ball and when he did his receiver would be wide open. They almost managed to overcome a pretty steep deficit to take the lead in the fourth quarter.

I recognize that defense. That's the same one from a couple of seasons ago when the team only won four games. I thought we'd moved on from that. That defense will not advance in the playoffs.

My nickname for that style of defense is "let-'em-do-anything-they-want."

Needless to say, I have concerns with that defense. While there are some standout players, such as Vic Beasley, we still need help when it comes to rushing the passer. Someone to play in the middle, either as a lineman or as a linebacker, who is effective at clogging things up, would be a big help, I think.

I realize the defense has a lot of young players and a many of the problems have been because of their inexperience. Hopefully, now that they have a season under their belts, they'll figure out how to play an NFL-level defense.

Next season? Expectations are to maintain the offensive excellence you've established this season. Bring the defense up to the same level as the offense. Win at least eleven games. Advance in the playoffs.

Congratulations on a great season! I'm looking forward to seeing you against Seattle in the game next Saturday, and hopefully in Houston in a few weeks!

Go, Falcons!