Falcons must improve their blitzing efficiency

The Falcons are to pass rush as Dave is to sobriety. Like oil and water, these are things that just don't mix. In a perfect world, Dave would stop vomiting on himself and the Falcons would generate some quarterback pressure. But alas, we don't live in a perfect world.

In 2013, the Falcons blitzed on 187/576 drop backs (32.47 percent or 12/32 teams). In short, they blitzed a lot, relatively speaking. That number is probably partially inflated by the need to blitz at a higher clip when playing from behind. It's further inflated by the Falcons overusing the blitz when they can't otherwise generate pass rush.

The Falcons managed a total of 32 sacks in 2013, 16 while blitzing. They generated more hurries when not blitzing, though that's to be expected (389 drop backs without blitzing versus 187 while blitzing). But their real problem is a inability to efficiently blitz.

I know what you're thinking: inefficient blitzing, what the heck is that? Simple, it's your inability to accumulate sacks, hits, and hurries while blitzing. You blitz, but the desired results are nowhere to be found. The Falcons own this particular brand of tomfoolery like it's their job. In fact, in 2013, they ranked 28th in pass rushing productivity while blitzing. Yikes.

So what's the prescription? Less blitzes? Better timing? More cowbell? I'm not sure. I think Nolan has to be more strategic, that's for sure. I also think the personnel shoulders some of the blame.

Your thoughts?