Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Atlanta Braves
Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Atlanta Braves
The New Orleans Saints are set to face the Atlanta Falcons in their first game under interim head coach Darren Rizzi, following the dismissal of Dennis Allen. The Falcons' head coach, Raheem Morris, who has experienced a similar situation when he took over as interim head coach in 2020 after Dan Quinn's departure, understands the urgency this brings to a team.
"You just increase the urgency in the whole building in the Saints organization," Morris stated. "They're playing for their livelihood. They're playing for jobs."
Morris recalls his own experience from Week 6 of the 2020 season when Atlanta secured their first win against the Minnesota Vikings with him at the helm. Defensive tackle Grady Jarrett described that period as a "jolt" within the team, emphasizing how such changes can provide a fresh start.
New Orleans is currently on a seven-game losing streak and recently lost to the Carolina Panthers by one point. Atlanta quarterback Kirk Cousins noted how coaching changes can "galvanize" teams, reflecting on his experience during Morris' first win as an interim coach.
"I believe the team plays very well the following week, in my experience," Cousins said regarding coaching changes. He acknowledged that facing an emotionally charged team presents a significant challenge.
Historically, teams have shown mixed results under new interim coaches with a record of 17-15 since 2010. Despite these statistics, Falcons players like offensive lineman Jake Matthews stress not underestimating any opponent regardless of circumstances.
"I don't care if their head coach just got fired; it doesn't matter," Matthews commented on maintaining focus against all opponents.
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