Falcons QB Matt Ryan is confident in rookie RB Jacquizz Rodgers’ ability to play on passing downs this year. “His knowledge of protections is really good,” Ryan said. “He’s gonna be the third-down back for us.” The bit about pass protection is key — that’s one facet of the game that tends to keep rookies RBs off the field. Rodgers seems primed to step right in as Atlanta’s change-of-pace back behind Michael Turner. He could flirt with 40 catches.
