Raheem Morris Stands Firm Amid Special Teams Struggles
The Atlanta Falcons faced a disheartening defeat in Week 13 against the New York Jets, and head coach Raheem Morris has opted to keep his coaching staff intact despite the glaring issues that emerged during the game. On a day when the Falcons outperformed the Jets in yardage and first downs, the team ultimately fell short, losing 27-24.
A Game of Missed Opportunities
Despite outgaining New York by 120 yards and witnessing standout performances from players like Bijan Robinson, who racked up nearly 200 scrimmage yards, the Falcons’ special teams were their undoing. Morris did not shy away from addressing the team’s failures, stating, “We played awful yesterday on special teams. I don’t know how to say it any other way.”
The special teams unit surrendered 13 points to the Jets, a crucial factor that tilted the game in New York’s favor. Key blunders included kicker Zane Gonzalez missing a 50-yard field goal, Jamal Agnew muffing a punt that set the Jets up with incredible field position, and an 83-yard kick return that led to a 32-yard field goal. As the clock wound down, the Falcons found themselves in a position to tie the game, but poor punt coverage allowed the Jets to gain 16 yards, setting up the decisive kick.
Critical Errors Highlighted
While the missed field goal from Gonzalez was a concern, the Jets themselves had a miss that somewhat offset that error. However, it was the special teams’ mistakes that drew the ire of critics. Morris took responsibility for Agnew’s drop, emphasizing the fundamentals that players learn from a young age: “You’re taught not to go inside the eight to 10-yard line.” He labeled the error as “inexcusable,” underscoring the need for discipline and execution at every level of play.
In kickoff coverage, the Falcons had planned to kick the ball out of the end zone, which inadvertently gave the Jets advantageous starting field position at the 35-yard line. Morris explained that this strategy was a show of respect for the Jets’ returners, a decision that backfired when the Jets demonstrated their capability with a long return.
Persistent Challenges on Special Teams
The Falcons have struggled consistently on special teams this season, as they currently allow 29.8 yards per return—the highest average in the NFL. Linebacker JD Bertrand, who also contributes on special teams, noted the importance of individual responsibility, stating, “You’re one of 11, and if one person’s outside of their gap, it can create a hole.” The emphasis on accountability is crucial for the team as they look to rectify these ongoing issues.
Morris Maintains Confidence in Staff
Despite the significant challenges, Morris has chosen not to make any emotional decisions regarding special teams coordinator Marquice Williams. He affirmed his trust in Williams and the coaching staff, saying, “I’ve got a lot of confidence in what Marquice does… We have just not done that,” referring to the execution that has been lacking on the field.
As the Falcons navigate the remainder of the season, the focus will be on rectifying these special teams blunders while maintaining the confidence in their current staff and strategies.
