When the Falcons hired Arthur Smith, rumors began to emerge that the new offensive-minded coach could spend the day playing the game calling whoever was appointed as his offensive coordinator. This alarmed some fans, as Smith’s curriculum is mainly reinforced by what he does on the field.
During his introductory press conference on Tuesday, however, the new coach confirmed what fans expected: he will retain offensive call functions on match days.
Smith: “I’m going to call the pieces”.
– Kevin Knight (@FalcoholicKevin) January 19, 2021
This is obviously an important detail and in line with what OC to HC signings have done in recent years. Guys like Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan remained in control of the attack, even as their responsibilities increased to cover the entire 53-man roster.
In particular for Arthur Smith, his resume has been driven mainly by what he has done with the Titans in the past two years as his offensive coordinator. During this period, his attacks were ranked 1st in efficiency of the red zone, 2nd in yards per move and 4th in scoring. The only offenses he has committed in the past 20 years have been led by Peyton Manning, Drew Brees and Patrick Mahomes.
This must be great news for Falcons fans who want some of that magic spread back into a unit that has performed dramatically below its level of talent. Guys like Matt Ryan, Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley should come up with numbers like the Titans did and with Smith maintaining control, there is a legitimate hope that they will do so in 2021.