NFL Power Rankings, Week 1: Carson Wentz lights up the world

27. Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons defense failed to contain Jameis Winston, who threw four touchdowns in a 31-24 Buccaneers victory.

Matt Ryan has proven himself to be a good quarterback, but not among the leagues’ elite. The 31-year-old has always put up decent numbers, except when it comes to playoff appearances. The Falcons haven’t won a playoff game since knocking off the Seahawks in the 2012 NFC Division game.

Running back Devonta Freeman failed to show signs of life coming off a breakout season in 2015. He only managed 20 yards on 11 rushing attempts, while Tevin Coleman averaged 2.8 yards per carry on eight attempts.

Coleman ultimately led Atlanta in receiving yards with 95 against the Buccaneers.

Dan Quinn was brought in from Seattle to help turn the Falcons defense around, but we have not seen the performance translate. Two rookies are starting at linebacker, and first round pick Keanu Neal is recovering from knee surgery. The former Florida Gator had a knee scope, and likely won’t play next week as well.

Fans could tell the secondary missed having a playmaker like Neal on their side, as the Falcons gave up multiple passes of over 20 yards. Mike Evan’s 45 yard catch highlighted the defenses’ struggles to keep the receivers in-front of them.

Atlanta will travel to Oakland, where they will face a much improved Raiders team coming off a big win over the New Orleans Saints. Facing a defense consisting of Khalil Mack, Bruce Irvin, Jihad Ward, and Malcolm Smith will be no easy task for this Falcons team.

Next: Miami Dolphins