Falcons vs. Giants: Why Matt Ryan, Atlanta Are Guaranteed To Flop

Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons have a lot to prove in winning their first playoff game in the Smith/Ryan era. However, they will have to wait another year before they can silence their critics. 

The biggest issue for the Falcons will be how they will slow down the Giants' revitalized pass rush. Their line, especially their tackles, have struggled in pass protection. The Giants will utilize a rotation of Umenyiora, Tuck, and Pierre-Paul and will keep them fresh. 

As a result, the Falcons will have a tough time taking advantage of an under-performing Giants secondary with all of their weapons on the outside.

The best way for the Falcons to slow down the Giants pass rush is their running game, which is highly overrated. Turner may have had a great game against the Bucs, but take that performance with a grain of salt. Running against the Giants' front seven is a whole new challenge.

Defensively, the Falcons are going to need a huge game from John Abraham, who is a very hot and cold player. If Abraham does not deliver, Cruz and Nicks are going to cause nightmares for the Falcons secondary. 

What has gone a bit under the radar is how the Falcons' defensive tackles have under-performed this season. The Giants may be last in rushing statistically, but they have improved since getting Ahmad Bradshaw back. If the Giants get a ground game going, it can totally negate the Falcons pass rush.

Simply put, the Falcons are playing the Giants just when they seem to be peaking, and it is going to take a great effort from Ryan and co. to slow down their momentum.