The Atlanta Falcons finally broke their five-game losing streak with a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 10. That keeps the Falcons in playoff contention as they prepare for a big NFC South game against the Carolina Panthers that will have major playoff implications. The Panthers are dealing with a bad loss and injuries coming out of a Monday night football matchup, but the Falcons have injuries of their own that could stall the offense.
Already decimated at the offensive line, the Falcons continue to deal with inconsistencies with the wide receiver position. Julio Jones, Roddy White, Harry Douglas and Devin Hester might make up one of the more dynamic rotations in the league, but they have rarely all been healthy in the same week. Week 11 will be no different.
According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, both Hester and Douglas are listed as questionable leading into the game against the Panthers. Douglas has been on and off the field as season after putting up a career-high year in 2013. After missing a handful of games due to a foot injury, Douglas finally returned to the field against the Buccaneers, but did not record a catch. Hester has been dealing with knee problems, but has not missed time. Head coach Mike Smith anticipates both players on the field Sunday.
The Falcons are hoping to get an added boost soon at the wide receiver spot. Drew Davis is working towards his return after offseason foot surgery. He Is working out during practice on a limited basis and the Falcons have until Nov. 24 to decide whether or not to add him to the active roster.
"It feels pretty good," Davis said, via the Atlanta Journal Constitution. "It still is a little bit brand new just getting back to doing everything and running routes and being on special teams. I think the biggest part is being back out there and getting into the same routine and helping. I'm feeling good and just trying to get my cardio back."
The pressure is on both Jones and White to step up in the absence of either Hester or Douglas. Dropped passes have plagued both wide receivers, but if Atlanta is going to get a win in Week 11 and stay in the running for the NFC South title, Jones and White will be x-factors. When Jones plays well, the Falcons win. The wide receiver has four 100-yard games this season. The Falcons have won three of those matchups. The Panthers just allowed 300 yards from Mark Sanchez. Matt Ryan and Jones can do better.
