Atlanta Falcons' last-ranked pass rush still a missing link

Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Joplo Bartu (59) sacks New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) during the first half on Oct. 15 in New Orleans. - photo by Gerald Herbert

1023Falcons — Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Joplo Bartu (59) sacks New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) during the first half on Oct. 15 in New Orleans. - photo by Gerald Herbert

FLOWERY BRANCH — The pass rush is a missing link in the Atlanta Falcons’ otherwise strong start. The Falcons are tied for last in the NFL with only seven sacks through six games, and that’s a troubling number for coach Dan Quinn heading into Sunday’s game at Tennessee (1-4). Atlanta (5-1) has improved in other areas under Quinn, but the pass rush seems to be stuck in the past.

Regional events