For the head coach position, the Falcons have requested to speak with two of the Ravens’ top assistants again.

After their commanding 34-10 victory against the Houston Texans, the Baltimore Ravens’ coaching staff remains highly sought after. According to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport on Tuesday, the Atlanta Falcons have sought permission for second interviews with Defensive Coordinator Mike Macdonald and Associate Head Coach and Defensive Line Coach Anthony Weaver. Macdonald has already undergone interviews with the Falcons and Carolina Panthers, and he still has interview requests from the Washington Commanders,

Tennessee Titans, and Los Angeles Chargers. Weaver, on the other hand, has only had an initial interview with the Falcons but has also been asked to interview with the Commanders.

Both coaches are managing these interviews during their personal time, separate from their team responsibilities. In their pursuit of head coaching positions in Atlanta, they face formidable competition, including potential future Hall of Famer Bill Belichick, a seven-time Super Bowl-winning coach. Belichick is one of five candidates who have either completed a second interview or have one scheduled, a list that also includes Jim Harbaugh, brother of Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh, fresh off a recent national college championship victory.

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The 49ers’ need for another dramatic last-second triumph warrants a thorough reflection. It’s January 14th, 2012, and we find ourselves at Candlestick Park in San Francisco. With only 14 seconds left in the game, trailing by three points, and facing a crucial third down, the 49ers are in a must-score situation to keep their playoff aspirations alive, steering clear of the uncertainties of overtime. On the opposing side, the Saints have the opportunity to seal the game with a takeaway and secure their place in the NFC Championship Game. To truly grasp the circumstances leading to this point and to recognize the significance of this moment, we must take a step back.

Macdonald, at 36, is currently immersed in his second season of crafting and calling plays for the Ravens’ defense. This defense has been a dominant force throughout the season, boasting a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging young talent that has performed at an elite level. Macdonald’s unit achieved a historic feat by finishing the season as the NFL leader in sacks (60), takeaways (31), and fewest points allowed per game (16.5). As the season progresses, several players are enjoying career-best performances, positioning themselves for lucrative deals once free agency commences in March. In the divisional round against the Houston Texans, the Ravens delivered another commanding performance, limiting their opponents to a mere three points and 213 yards of total offense, despite not securing a single sack or takeaway.

Weaver, aged 43, transitioned from player to coach and has been an integral part of the staff since 2021. In the 2022 season, he served as the run game coordinator for the top-ranked rush defense, and since then, he has been Coach Harbaugh’s right-hand man. Weaver played a key role in the committee that facilitated the hiring of Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken, who has proven to be a resounding success in his inaugural year, guiding franchise quarterback Lamar Jackson to contention for his second league MVP honor.