Atlanta Falcons Adding Balance To Run-First Philosophy

Atlanta Falcons coach Mike Smith predicts that Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears will be a very physical one. Smith says the Falcons think they have to be able to run the ball against everybody. He wants to construct a winning plan that emphasizes the running game.

AP
Published: October 9, 2008

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FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) - Atlanta Falcons coach Mike Smith predicts that Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears will be a very physical one.

Smith says the Falcons think they have to be able to run the ball against everybody. He wants to construct a winning plan that emphasizes the running game.

But the Falcons have shown they won’t hesitate to pass.

When Green Bay’s defense stacked the line to stop running back Michael Turner last week, rookie quarterback Matt Ryan was ready to throw.

Ryan and Roddy White combined for eight receptions for 132 yards and a touchdown in the first half of Atlanta’s 27-24 win.

Chicago cornerback Nathan Vasher says the Falcons and Bears share a similar offensive philosophy. He says the Bears simply want to stop Atlanta’s running game and get some runs of their own.