Falcons‘ Offensive Struggles on Third Down Contribute to Berlin Loss
FRANKFURT, GERMANY – The Atlanta falcons’ inability to convert on third down proved critical in their 20-17 overtime loss to the Tennessee Titans in Frankfurt on Sunday, raising questions about the offense’s overall performance and shared duty for the shortcomings.The Falcons went 0-for-11 on third down attempts,a meaningful factor in their offensive stagnation,particularly in the second half and overtime.
The disappointing result in Germany underscores a broader issue for the Falcons as they navigate a competitive NFC South. The team’s struggles on third down aren’t solely attributable to one player or play-caller; rather, a combination of factors – including pass protection breakdowns, missed connections between the quarterback and receivers, and a failure to establish consistent gains on earlier downs – contributed to the offensive woes.The outcome leaves Atlanta at 4-6 and facing an uphill battle to secure a playoff berth.
A key moment highlighted the issues facing rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. During the Falcons’ first possession of the second half, Penix underthrew an open tight end, Kyle Pitts, resulting in a pass breakup. Head coach Arthur Smith acknowledged the situation, stating that players need to “make for your quarterback every once in a while,” but ultimately emphasized the quarterback’s responsibility to ”give his guy a chance.” The missed connection forced the Falcons to settle for a field goal.
The offense’s struggles weren’t limited to Penix’s throws.Several third-down attempts were hampered by a lack of open receivers, compounded by breakdowns in pass protection. The team also faced a significant challenge with down and distance, averaging seven yards to gain on third downs.
The Falcons’ offensive approach also appeared to shift away from the running game, though this perception was likely amplified by Penix’s declining efficiency in the second half.He completed just three of his ten passes in the fourth quarter, all during their lone touchdown drive.The remaining four possessions in the fourth quarter and overtime resulted in punts or the clock expiring.
Smith and analysts agree that assigning blame for offensive struggles is rarely straightforward. While the play-caller and quarterback often receive the most scrutiny, multiple players share responsibility. “there is rarely, if ever, a single person to blame,” the report stated, concluding, “That’s on everybody.”
