Possible strategies for Falcons/Bucs

Things to possibly look for this Sunday afternoon as the Falcons host the Bucs.

Look for both sets of safeties on each team to play a large role and be tested. Atlanta’s front four may be banged up a bit with Kerney (Probable) and Abraham’s (Questionable) injuries. Tampa Bay’s o-line played very poorly last week versus Baltimore. Look for Atlanta to be aggressive up front to stuff the run and make Simms throw the ball. Hall will be on lock down duty against Galloway and the secondary may “roll” to the opposite side to keep strength in numbers. This will leave the safeties vulnerable to play-action and deep middle patterns. Ed Reed dominated the secondary last week causing headaches for Simms. Look for Atlanta to try to mimic some of the Ravens success.

Cadillac Williams (Probable) is a little banged up but should be fine. He was “compressed” a few times last week and had an MRI on his back on Monday. His two starting guards may still be out (Buenning is listed as out), as well. If Atlanta’s front four are healthy, or if Jackson plays effectively, look for Williams to get hit hard. He proved last year that he can wear down. Also Ed Hartwell is listed as out but has reportedly told Coach Mora that he will be available on Sunday.

Atlanta will probably keep trying to move the pocket when Vick passes to utilize his speed and help buy him a little more time. This has reaped mixed results in the past against TB. The Buc’s front seven are very fast and have proven to be up to the challenge of stopping Vick’s scrambles. Jenkins may continue to see some time in the slot to create some matchup problems. However, the Buc’s corners are physical and should be effective at neutralizing Lelie and White. This can open up play action to Jenkins and Crumpler.

The key to the game, as usual, will be Atlanta’s ability to run the ball. TB gets LB Quarles back this week to help out and are tough to run outside on. TB’s safeties will have to help out if the Atlanta runs the ball up the middle like last week. Being the home opener, Atlanta should have a good energy level and not have a huge drop-off from last week. Atlanta is great with a lead. But if they can’t run the ball, TB has proven they can beat Vick when he passes. But let’s see if the Buc’s can score first!!