Four games into the 2019 season, the Falcons have the second-most passing yards in the NFL, but they only rank No. 27 in rushing yards per game. Running back Devonta Freeman’s return hasn’t had the effect that most expected. Freeman has averaged just 3.3 yards per carry on 47 attempts for 157 yards. Backup running back Ito Smith is averaging 5.7 yards per carry, but has only received 13 carries.
Offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter has acknowledged the team’s lack of success on the ground. Koetter thinks the reason Atlanta hasn’t gotten it going is due to a lack of attempts. At least that’s what he told Jason Butt of the Athletic.
Even though there are a lot of weapons in Atlanta’s offensive arsenal, a one-dimensional offense is always easier to stop.
The team has unsuccessfully tried to run the ball early in games. It would probably help if Koetter made some changes. Analytics indicate he should be calling more passes on first downs, especially in the first half. That might help establish a lead, which naturally leads to more rushing attempts.
No matter the reasons or the excuses, the Falcons certainly have the pieces to average much more than 17.5 points per game.
