Identify and extend the pattern to find the next number in this sequence: 63, 54, 45, 36,

In order for the function to be linear, what must m be and why? m = 22 because the rate of change is 1. m = 20 because the rate of change is 3. m = 22 because the rate of change is -1. m = 20 because the rate of change is -3.