Bijan Robinson Calls for Falcons to Embrace Their Running Identity
The Atlanta Falcons are at a crossroads in their season, and running back Bijan Robinson is urging his team to lean back into their core strength: a powerful run game. The Falcons have built their offensive identity around this very philosophy, a truth that Robinson feels must be acknowledged if they hope to salvage the remainder of the season.
A Commitment to the Ground Game
Under the guidance of head coach Raheem Morris, the Falcons have professed their belief in the ability to run the ball against any opponent. “I think we’re a running football team that’s able to go out there and run it on just about anybody when you want to run it,” Morris stated as the team prepared for their Week 6 showdown against the Buffalo Bills. This assertion was backed by an impressive performance earlier this season when the Falcons rushed for over 200 yards against the Bills.
However, the weeks following that explosive game have painted a different picture. The Falcons have struggled to maintain that momentum, failing to surpass 75 total rushing yards in any of their last three outings. The situation has prompted Robinson to call for a return to their roots as they prepare to face the Indianapolis Colts.
Reestablishing the Offensive Philosophy
Robinson emphasized the need for the Falcons to reclaim their identity. “We need to go in there with the mentality that that’s what we do. Our identity is running the football, and everything else opens up and comes with that,” he said. He believes that a commitment to the ground game is crucial for the team’s success, asserting that running effectively must be the primary focus if they wish to dominate their opponents.
Historically, the Falcons have demonstrated a clear pattern: when they abandon their run game, they struggle to win. In their three victories this season, Robinson has seen a significant workload with 22, 17, and 19 carries. Conversely, when he has had fewer than 15 carries, the Falcons have failed to secure a win, posting an 0-5 record.
The Shift Away from Identity
Morris has echoed this sentiment, expressing his frustration with the team’s recent shift away from their running identity. Following a Week 1 loss, he remarked, “I don’t want to go out there and plan to throw it 40 times.” Yet, in the last three games, the Falcons have seen passing attempts of 38, 31, and 37, markedly straying from their foundational strategy. During this span, Robinson and fellow running back Tyler Allgeier have combined for a mere 45 carries, a stark contrast to earlier in the season.
Robinson’s call to action serves as a poignant reminder to the Falcons: running the football is not merely a tactic but a vital part of their identity. To regain their footing in the league, they must prioritize the run game, allowing it to set the stage for the rest of their offensive plays.
Looking Ahead to the Colts Matchup
As the Falcons gear up for their international matchup against the Colts, the focus is clear. Robinson knows that recapturing their run-centric approach will be key to success. The team must return to its roots, embracing the power of the run to pave the way for a turnaround in their season. The clock is ticking, and the Falcons must act swiftly to restore their identity on the field.
