How do you slow down the Falcons’ pass rush?
The Falcons’ pass rush has come alive, with 15 different players registering at least 0.5 sacks this season. In the last two games alone, the group—which is Top 5 in the league with 29.0 sacks—has 13.0 sacks.
Rookies Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. have especially found a speed off the edge that has become lethal. Offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu knows this is a different defense than the Panthers faced in Week 3, and it starts with protecting the edge.
“Definitely got to consider a different team,” said Ekwonu. “We played them early, but you know, this late in the season, they’ve figured some stuff out, and you know, definitely they’re explosive up front.
“(Walker and Pearce), I mean, they’ve definitely grown. Obviously, I’m not going to give up too much of what I’m seeing on tape, but the stats speak for themselves; they’ve definitely grown into their role. They’ve definitely come into their own, they’ve definitely been on a good tear.”
The Falcons won’t have veteran edge rusher Leonard Floyd. He was ruled out for Sunday’s game with a hamstring.
