Falcons DC Jeff Ulbrich on Jonathan Taylor: ‘He’s Given Me Nightmares’
As the Atlanta Falcons gear up to face the Indianapolis Colts in Germany, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is acutely aware of the challenge posed by Colts running back Jonathan Taylor. With Taylor leading the NFL in rushing yards, touchdowns, and explosive plays, Ulbrich recognizes the urgency of stopping a player who has haunted him throughout his coaching career.
A Rising Star in the Spotlight
The Falcons have encountered difficulties in their run defense, particularly following the injury to linebacker Divine Deablo, who is sidelined with a broken arm. Atlanta has struggled to find its footing, losing all three games since Deablo’s absence. Now, as they prepare to take on the Colts, the stakes could not be higher. Taylor, who has long been underappreciated on the national stage, is finally receiving the recognition he deserves this season, particularly as the Colts have surged to a 7-2 record and rank first in the league in scoring at 32.2 points per game.
Ulbrich pondered why Taylor, a former All-Pro, has flown under the radar. “I don’t know if it’s because maybe it’s a smaller market in Indianapolis,” he mused. “Every time I’ve gone against him, he’s just given me nightmares. He’s explosive, fast, and possesses elite vision and contact balance. They can block it for five yards, and he can turn it into 25. He’s complete in every way and an effective receiver out of the backfield.”
Fundamentals and Strategy Are Key
This year marks a turning point for Taylor, who is finally garnering the national attention he deserves—a situation Ulbrich attributes to the Colts’ overall success. Previously, the Colts were the No. 1 seed in the AFC, highlighting their offensive prowess. However, in order to prevent the Colts from reclaiming that top spot, Ulbrich knows that the Falcons must significantly improve their run defense.
“From a schematic standpoint, I’ve got to devote the resources to the run game at times,” Ulbrich stated. “We need to put enough hats in the box to handle them. Ultimately, stopping the run comes down to fundamentals and mindset. We need to focus on getting off blocks, setting edges, and tackling well. Those elements will be crucial.”
A Multifaceted Offense to Contend With
Ulbrich also emphasized that it’s not just Taylor who makes the Colts’ offense formidable. Quarterback Daniel Jones is enjoying a resurgence, playing some of the best football of his career. Alongside him, wide receiver Michael Pittman brings a big-play threat reminiscent of Falcons’ own Drake London, while Alex Pierce averages an impressive 20.9 yards per catch. Adding to this dynamic offense is rookie tight end Tyler Warren, further complicating the defensive challenge.
“It’s not just that they have the number one offense this season; they’re on a historic pace for points and yards,” Ulbrich remarked. “To beat an opponent like this, especially given our recent struggles—not only defensively but as a team—we need to create momentum and turn things around. Facing a complete opponent like this is exactly what we need.”
The Road Ahead
The Falcons have shown the ability to rise to the occasion against stronger teams, but they have also faltered against less formidable opponents. As they prepare to face the Colts, who are arguably the most well-rounded team they have encountered this season, the Falcons must find a way to contain Taylor and his high-powered offense. If they can’t, the prospect of slipping to 3-6 looms ominously on the horizon.
