Zac Robinson Responds to 49ers’ Claims of Foreknowledge on Falcons’ 4th-Down Play
The Atlanta Falcons suffered a narrow defeat to the San Francisco 49ers in their Week 7 matchup, but one pivotal moment has since sparked debate. Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson took the opportunity to address comments made by 49ers cornerback Chase Lucas, who claimed he foresaw the Falcons’ fourth-down play.
The Game-Changing Moment
With the game on the line, the Falcons found themselves trailing by just three points in the fourth quarter, deep within 49ers territory. Faced with a crucial 4th-and-1 situation on the San Francisco 36-yard line, the Falcons opted to go for it rather than settle for a field goal. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. set up in the shotgun formation and motioned wide receiver Drake London across the field. The play, designed as a quick pass to London in the flat, was thwarted when Lucas made a critical defensive play, knocking the ball away just as London was poised to catch it. Consequently, the 49ers seized the opportunity, driving down the field for a game-clinching touchdown.
Lucas Claims Insight
After the game, Lucas made headlines with his assertion that he had anticipated the Falcons’ play. “When I kept looking at it, every time he’s at two [in the slot], he’s running that option route. He’s always outside,” Lucas explained. “When I see [Drake London] motion over, I’m like, ‘Oh wow, they’re really about to run this on 4th-and-1.’ I’m just mad that I missed the opportunity to pick it off.”
Robinson’s Rebuttal
Robinson was quick to respond to Lucas’s comments, emphasizing that the Falcons had not run that specific play at all during the season. “You don’t know what they’re talking about in their meetings, but obviously, he made a good play,” Robinson said, reflecting on the situation. He indicated that the focus within the Falcons’ room is on improving execution, adding, “In our room, we’re saying, ‘Hey, how could the details, fundamentals, execution been better in order for that not to happen?’”
Despite the unsuccessful attempt, Robinson expressed confidence in Penix’s decision-making. “Had no problem with Mike throwing that ball because we felt like he still had a yard and a half of separation. You can absolutely cut that thing loose, and we’ve seen you guys make those plays. Of course, it didn’t happen.”
Reflecting on Missed Opportunities
Robinson acknowledged the weight of the moment, recognizing that every play counts in football. “You want those things to work on third down and then you want it to work on fourth down,” he noted. “Those are the things that you just wear yourself out about. We had a good look, in terms of that play.”
As the Falcons prepare to rebound against a struggling Miami Dolphins team, the focus will be on learning from past mistakes and moving forward. The challenge now is to translate lessons learned into a more favorable outcome on the field.
