Saints Slow Start against Falcons in First-Half
New Orleans Saints slow start has the team trailing the Atlanta Falcons in the first-half 13 - 6 at home in a NFC South contest.
The Saints are victimizing themselves with penalties and a lack of execution. The defensive unit is being surprised by the aggressive play of the Falcons' offense. Atlanta leads the time of possession, 17:20 to 12:40.
Matt Ryan has been very efficient. 12/18 for 123 yards, 1 TD and 104.6 Passer Rating.
Drew Brees is 15/17, 133 yards, 0 TD, 99.3 Passer Rating.
Five Keys of the Game:
1. Keeping the Saints Offense on the Sidelines - Atlanta is controlling the clock and pace of the football game.
2. Injuries: Marshon Lattimore and Andrus Peat; If Lattimore cannot return, watch for the Falcons to focus on Julio Jones versus Eli Apple.
3. Penalties - Saints - 7, Falcons - 4; Saints defense has caused most of the penalties.
4. Rushing Game: Saints - 24 yards, Falcon - 85 yards
5. Punting - Saints have punted twice and Falcons only once.