The Falcons got to face a different defense for the first time Monday evening against the Titans and they looked as sharp as they have during camp. Head coach Mike Smith spent the majority of his practice time watching the offense, specifically the first teamers since they will not be playing much during the first preseason game coming up Thursday with the Ravens.
"This was a good way to get some good work for our starters," Smith said, adding that he expects the younger players on the roster to fill much of the minutes against the Ravens.
Quarterback Matt Ryan looked crisp in his operation of the offense, hitting numerous receivers in stride throughout the day. Kevin Cone, Harry Douglas and Roddy White had a few catches on the evening. Julio Jones may have had the highlight when he beat one-on-one coverage against Jason McCourty and caught a pass as he slanted across the field for a touchdown.
"We'll have a better understanding when we watch the tape," Ryan said. "For the most part we wanted to make sure on top of our assignments going against a different defense. They gave us some different looks and we had certain rules for certain things. It's good work for us in a somewhat controlled environment. I thought it was productive."
Smith was pleased with Ryan's effectiveness in the practice against a team he wasn't familiar with.
"I thought it was very competitive on the offensive side of the football," Smith said. "There were some good plays made by both teams. I really liked the way Matt operated with our wide receivers and tight ends."
