Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta Falcons

Bengals to test Falcons’ run defense

By
Sept 12, 2014

Falcons coach Mike Smith is calling for his defense to step up against the Bengals rushing attack on Sunday.

“We had two explosive passes in the game last week, but we had way too many explosive runs,” Smith said.

The Falcons count gains of 12 yards or more as explosive runs and the gave up five against the Saints.

The Bengals running backs, Giovani Bernard and Jeremy Hill, combined to rush 18 times for 67 yards in their 23-17 season-opening win over Baltimore.

“This is a team that can run the ball very effectively,” Smith said.

The Falcons gave up 139 yards rushing against the Saints.

About the Author

Honored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his "long and distinguished reporting in the field of pro football," D. Orlando Ledbetter, Esq. has covered the NFL 28 seasons. A graduate of Howard University, he's a winner of Georgia Sportswriter of the Year and three Associated Press Sports Editor awards.

Follow D. Orlando Ledbetter on facebookFollow D. Orlando Ledbetter on twitter
More Stories

Keep Reading

Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins attempts a pass during overtime against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. In three appearances this season, Cousins has completed 32 of 52 attempts for 250 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

OPINION

Falcons’ Plan B is Kirk Cousins, which isn’t the most hopeful plan

With Michael Penix Jr. sidelined for at least four games, Atlanta's outlook for the rest of the season is grim based on Cousins’ performances in 2025.

Falcons’ Morris on losing Penix to injury: ‘It’s just heartbreaking’

As Atlanta waits for a second opinion on its quarterback's knee, coach Raheem Morris turns team's focus to ending a five-game losing streak.

Cousins, defense and more: 5 things we learned in the Falcons’ loss to Panthers

The Falcons, with injuries mounting, will have to rely more on backups, beginning Sunday at New Orleans.

The Latest

Falcons coach Raheem Morris (center) has a discussion with referees during the second half against the Panthers on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

Falcons’ Morris on losing Penix to injury: ‘It’s just heartbreaking’

OPINION

Falcons’ Plan B is Kirk Cousins, which isn’t the most hopeful plan

Cousins, defense and more: 5 things we learned in the Falcons’ loss to Panthers

Featured

Travelers wait in Concourse F, the international terminal, at Hartsfield-Jackson airport in Atlanta on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. (Arvin Temkar / AJC)

Credit: arvin.temkar@ajc.com

Why cell service, Wi-Fi have been spotty at ATL’s international terminal

There are several reasons why it has been tough to get reliable cell service and Wi-Fi access at Concourse F and the international terminal. A completed fix is coming soon.

POLITICALLY GEORGIA

Georgia’s top Republican US Senate candidates now back release of Epstein files

U.S. Reps. Buddy Carter, Mike Collins and Derek Dooley say they back a bill in the U.S. House that to force the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, who died in 2019.

Falcons put Penix on injured reserve; he’ll miss at least 4 games.

Kirk Cousins will be the starting QB after taking the reins in third quarter of Sunday’s loss.