SE Atlanta News

Once the initial surprise subsides, Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake's coaching approach reveals its logic. In preparation for the Falcons' Week 11 matchup against the Denver Broncos, Lake utilized clips from professional fights to convey specific messages to his defense.

Among the examples shown was Jorge Masvidal's 2019 fight against Ben Askren, where Masvidal achieved a knockout in just five seconds—the fastest in UFC history. Another clip featured Diego Corrales' 2005 victory over Jose Luis Castillo, where Corrales overcame two knockdowns to secure a technical knockout in the 10th round.

"What I'm showing, obviously, is starting fast and bringing the aggression," Lake explained. "But there's also the resiliency factor." This is how he wants the Falcons' defense to engage with their opponents going forward.

The recent performance of the Falcons' defense during their loss to the New Orleans Saints did not align with this strategy. Although they prevented scoring on the Saints' first drive, they allowed significant time consumption and conceded three consecutive scoring drives in the first half. Despite improving in the second half by forcing five three-and-outs and conceding only one field goal, it was insufficient to alter the game's outcome.

Falcons safety Jessie Bates III emphasized a shift in mindset: "It's natural for you to walk into a game like, 'All right, let's feel these first couple plays out.' But we can't have that mindset anymore. It's Week 11. Stuff isn't changing."

Lake aims to instill an aggressive approach by illustrating what decisive action looks like on the field. According to outside linebacker Matthew Judon, effective preparation is key: "You can start fast and play fast when you know what you're doing."

The lessons from both Masvidal-Askren and Corrales-Castillo highlight different aspects of competition—speed and resilience—that are applicable for improvement.

"It's just a way to relate to players and show them something," Lake stated. "No different than maybe your history teacher or your favorite teacher in high school."