Dec 8, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws a pass during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Green Bay won 43-37. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
4. Matt Ryan
The numbers are always going to be there for Matt Ryan. He’s a lock for 4,000 yards and a 90+ passer rating year in and year out. I think he’s had a bit of Eli Manning syndrome over the course of the last couple of years because of how the team has crumbled around him.
The run game has been a turnstile since Michael Turner left and injuries to Julio Jones, Roddy White, and the retirement of Tony Gonzalez have certainly thrown a wrench in their offensive plans as well.
On top of that, their defense has been an utter disaster. Known by many as the worst defensive personnel group in all of football. I just can’t put any of their recent struggles on the quarterback position. What impressed me the most was his 2012 season, when he sported a 111 passer rating on the road to go along with 21 touchdowns and just 5 interceptions.
We all know how successful he’s been at home (39-15 all-time), but on the road is where he needed to improve. I think with a better and healthier group around him, he can grow from that 13-3 2012 season. I know I’m nit-picking, but I feel like Ryan is one of the more under-appreciated players in the game. The Giants play Atlanta at home for the 2nd consecutive season in week 2.
Next: Drew Brees