Atlants Falcons: 2013-2014 Season Expectations

by Shea Harman

January 20th, a day frowned upon by most in the heart of the south. Not usually known for its cold winters, the temperature in Georgia was close to freezing on this day, and what was soon to happen made everything that much colder. Football fans from everywhere spilled onto the streets of Atlanta and packed into the Georgia Dome for the NFC Championship game, featuring the 49er's vs. Falcons. The game goes on, as exciting as expected, and also as many had predicted, would come down to the very last play. Here, ill paint you a picture of how it went. The zip of the football is flying through the air, laces spinning, leather torqued, and spiral seemingly perfect. The quarterback stands so close, yet so far away from his intended target. The trajectory of the ball is quality, his sights are clear, but what stands in the way of the ball and the receiver is all but helpful. The defender jumps in front of the receiver knocks down the pass, and ends not only the duration of the play, but the season as well. Midnight struck on this Cinderella story season for the Falcons as they were not only inches away from the Super Bowl, but were told by Hall of Fame Tight End Tony Gonzalez that this would be his last season. But little did the Falcons know, within the next few months, everything would be forgotten.

There are lots of questions to be answered this season, but some are of a player’s relevance on and off the field. First and Foremost, where is Tony Gonzalez now? Well, he's right where he should be, in Falcons training facilities gearing up for another season. After the 13 time pro-bowler said he was "95%" sure he was going to retire, the old man said he's not settling for anything less than a Super Bowl appearance. To go along with an amazing track record, a Super Bowl appearance for the 37 year old Gonzalez would be icing on the cake. Gonzalez is a huge key role for this patronized offense in Atlanta, and is predicted to have an even better year this year due to some new additions. Although TG's decision to return for another season made for a lot of conversation at training camp, he isn't the only new member being talked about.

Massive, intimidating, prodigious, these are all words that should be used when describing the presence of new Falcon Steven Jackson. After signing his 3-year $12 Million contract, the new starting running back got straight to work meeting teammates, working out with the team, and focusing on making this complex offense even more dynamic. Michael Turner was useful for the Falcons in his first few years with Atlanta, but it was soon evident that in this last 2012 season, age and athleticism had soon caught up to what some call "Michael Turner the Turtle." When asked what kind of back the Falcons need, Mike Smith responded by saying, "We need a more explosive back that can hit the holes hard." Well when looking at Steven Jackson, he is the right man for the job. Along with his speed and robust body, he is a smart RB who can block pretty well. Atlanta looks to utilize these aspects when opening up the play-action more this year along with multi-purpose back Jaquizz Rodgers. The two backs are predicted to have a successful season while complementing the amazing air attack that this offense has.

 

Steven Jackson is in the first year of a four-year deal with the Falcons.

Crave Online

Training camp has gone smoothly for the Falcons, but it’s never easy to get a team going in the start of the season. A lot of work is done behind the scenes to get players/staff ready for the season. Most teams take a couple real games to get them going, but that's not the same for Atlanta. Last year the Falcons were off the hottest start in football and after week 9, they were the only undefeated team remaining. Despite being predicted to come in 2nd or 3rd in the NFC South, the Falcons had the biggest lead of any NFC team and soon when on to capture the 1st seed for the playoffs. Head Coach Mike Smith says the Falcons look to repeat their early year success and dominate the first half of the season, so they don't put themselves in a sticky situation. Hopefully the repeat of 9-0 can be done, because the Falcons play on Sundays, is somewhat symbolic to their schedule as well.

Any true Atlanta fan knows that every game, the Falcons dominate the first half, usually getting off to a huge lead and or limiting the other team to a few points. But then comes the second half, where our defense just seems to give up sometimes and eventually let them come back, setting up Matt Ryan for a potential game winning drive. Their 2013 schedule looks all too similar. The Falcons first half schedule is pretty easy with the only challenge being New England at home during week 3 and a BYE during week 6. But the second half, doesn't look pretty. Much more competition and in the final four games of the season, they play 3 playoff teams. Weeks 14, 15, and 16 look a little something like this; @ Green bay, vs. Washington, and @ San Francisco. Going to be a tough couple weeks, with the season nearing an end, and with two of those games being away. This is the main reason getting off to a hot start is crucial for the Falcons.

 

The Falcons are hoping rookie starter Desmond Trufant will be able to contribute early.

Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

 

A lot of obstacles stand in the way between the Falcons and their first Super Bowl win in history, but there is a good chance it can be done. New first round CBs, a veteran powerhouse RB, and a returning HOF Tight End will all help, but the true test is on the field. As for my prediction; I believe the Falcons will finish the season a strong 12-4 with losses against New Orleans, Carolina, Green Bay, and San Francisco, but will still take the second overall seed in the playoffs. But that’s merely a prediction, us Falcons fans will let our play talk, as we bleed red/black gearing up for the best 22 weeks of the year.

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