The forgotten factor of the Atlanta Falcons upset win over the New Orleans Saints was the injury to Steven Jackson that knocked the veteran running back out of the game in the second quarter. Jackson suffered a quad injury that may or may not be serious, depending on what tests from the team doctor show this week. If Jackson is unable to play against the Carolina Panthers, Devonta Freeman could get the start which might not be a bad thing.
The Falcons are not rushing a decision on Jackson this week as it remains unclear if he is healthy or not. Jackson left the game in the second quarter after just four carries and one catch on the game. Head coach Mike Smith noted that he did not believe the injury was serious, but there is a lingering chance that the veteran could be shut down. However, one bright spot from Sunday's game was the emergence of Freeman who ran for 36 yards and a touchdown while also catching three passes for 48 yards. He had one of the more efficient days and Smith has no issues giving the rookie more responsibilities.
"Devonta has improved every week," Smith said via the team's website. "I think the biggest thing, as we said, if you go back and look at transcripts from training camp it was going to be about his ability to pick up pass protection, and he did an outstanding job. He was called upon because of the injury to Steven Jackson to play more snaps."
Another breakout star against the Saints was veteran wide receiver Eric Weems who earned his second touchdown of the season. Weems signed midway through the season while Harry Douglas was suffering with injuries and has been a quality asset to the offense while players like Julio Jones and Roddy White are on and off the field with various issues late in the season. Weems told the media that he is just simply happy to contribute as much as he can.
"I don't think that anyone was expecting me to get the shovel pass on the inside," Weems said, via the Atlanta Journal Constitution. "It was wide open and Matt (Ryan) found me. It was wide open. I love the game. I take a lot of passion out there for the game. I love playing it. I love seeing the guys next to me who are very successful. Some guys have roles and I think that's one of my roles on the team, is to get the guys going."
Weems will be critical against the Panthers as the Falcons face and win or go home situation in Week 17. The team remains hopeful that both White and Jones will be healthy so Ryan will have a full rotation to work with through the air.
