On Drake London, Cordarrelle Patterson, Tyler Allgeier and Falcons RB corps and more

Elex Williams from Chattanooga, Tenn.

How does the running back situation look?

Bair: I think there’s a solid collection of talent here that is deeper than a year ago. I’m still curious how much Cordarrelle Patterson takes conventional running back carries this season versus how much they move him around the formation. Damien Williams will factor heavily into the run game, and I think Tyler Allgeier plays a significant role in his rookie season. Everybody will have their role, with short-yardage options and quality receivers out of the backfield.

Patterson, however, has been on his own ramp-up plan. We haven’t seen a ton of him even in open practices, so it’s tough to get a gauge on how he’ll be used in 2022. I’m sure that’s by design, though we can all anticipate Arthur Smith being creative with him.

Nathan Pruitt from Athens, Ga.

It’s finally game week! Can’t think of a better way to kick off the season than a home victory over the Aint’s! What do you think the keys to victory are this week? Rise Up!

Bair: I think the Falcons have a chance to beat New Orleans in Week 1, and for a few reasons. The first is Week 1’s unpredictability. Volume of unscouted looks will be sky-high, with the Falcons having the advantage of so much new players fitting into this scheme. That includes Marcus Mariota, who will run Smith’s offense much differently than Matt Ryan did.

New Orleans has the more talented roster – that defense is stacked – but New Orleans quarterback Jameis Winston has a few multi-interception games on his ledger and winning that turnover battle could be huge in a close game. The Falcons played a decent amount in the preseason and hade four total joint practices, so they’ve been tested in the offense.

I think it comes down to offensive efficiency and pressuring the passer. Can Lorenzo Carter and Co. impact the Saints attack? If so, the Falcons can absolutely upset their rival.