The Falcons were very pleased with the impact DT Corey Peters(notes) made last season, and the 2010 third-round pick is becoming a better all-around player in Year Two. Atlanta felt it had a solid run defender in Peters heading into the season, but he's emerging as an improved pass rusher on the interior this year.

"This year, (Peters is) definitely getting more snaps and he's been very productive, especially these last two weeks," head coach Mike Smith said earlier this week. "He's getting a real comfort in his pass rush. … His pass rush has gotten better as the season has gone on. I think he has a good feel working with Ray (Edwards) and John (Abraham) in terms of working not only two-man games, but three-man games."

Peters already has more sacks (two) and pass breakups (three) — including an interception — than he did all of last season, and he's the only Falcons defensive tackle to record a sack this season.

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