Arthur Smith of the Atlanta Falcons Explains the Thinking Behind RB Cordarrelle Patterson’s Expanded Role
Running back Cordarrelle Patterson has played a bigger part for the Atlanta Falcons offense this season.
Even though he didn’t produce as much as Tyler Allgeier and Bijan Robinson on Sunday, running back Cordarrelle Patterson is clearly a permanent fixture in Atlanta’s rushing rotation after eight runs for 43 yards.
When questioned lately about why he decided to incorporate Patterson more into his offensive game plans, head coach Arthur Smith mentioned the versatility the 11-year player possesses.
Indeed, Smith remarked, “He’s been building on it.” “You saw some information about where you saw him in Tampa. He can play wherever, which provides you access to another guy.
“He provides you that if you need to win one-on-one outside, but we didn’t have to go out there. You also mention being new. Taking on such men is not easy. He will thus proceed, based on the strategy. However, these folks will all be participating as we hopefully continue to improve.
In essence, Smith understands that Robinson is his “bell cow” in the rushing game, but he isn’t able to sustain carrying the ball 35 times a game over the course of a season. That’s when players like Patterson, who have experience in the league and can provide new legs when the game becomes close, come into play.