FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- There's no beating around the bush in Flowery Branch these days after Atlanta's 17-0 loss to the New York Jets in its first preseason game.
Both head coach Dan Quinn and quarterback Matt Ryan were not pleased with the starting offense's performance in their lone series of the night. The drive consisted of two penalties, leaving the Falcons with a third-and-22 to work with, ultimately ending in 45-yard punt by Matt Bosher.
"Obviously that was not what we wanted for our first time out," Ryan said. "Too many mistakes, too many procedural penalties to put us behind the chains."
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But it is preseason and that's what these games are for – to work out the kinks before the wins and losses count.
Ryan, who is heading into his 11th season, is well aware of how important this time can be in terms of preparation for the regular season.
He also wanted to reassure everyone that before Falcons Nation goes into a frenzy over the fact that Atlanta's offense scored zero points in their preseason debut, the team is not pleased with their performance but knows it will only help them improve.
"But a lot for us to clean up but that's what this time of the year is about," Ryan said. "It's about seeing where you're at, improving as you move forward."
The coaching staff and players were able to go through the tape to see what worked and identified some of the areas they want to improve prior to Friday night's game against the Chiefs.
And according to Quinn, there's "definitely some battles from a competition standpoint" for the 53-man roster and the practice squad, making these next three games even more important for those fighting for a spot.
