In a game that had many twists and turns, the Atlanta Falcons prevailed at the very end. They went into MetLife Stadium as underdogs, and they found a way to win, 24-20. One could say the defense or offense won the game, but both units played incredible football and made key plays at key times. It was a brilliant effort by the team throughout, and the Falcons are now 2-0.
Led by a comeback in the 4th quarter by quarterback Matt Ryan, the Falcons showed the will to win. A man who made a play whenever targeted was Julio Jones. Jones played incredible football today, and showed why he is one of the best receivers in the NFL. Jones ended up with 13 receptions for 135 yards. The play after the two-minute warning, Ryan connected on a 37-yard pass to Jones that put the Falcons on the one-yard line. Devonta Freeman would later score to put the Falcons up 24-20.
The Giants were held in check on offense as they put up 20 points against the Falcons. They only had seven points in the second half, which was led by a brilliant effort by Atlanta’s new look defense. Defensive coordinator Richard Smith switched up his scheme in order to put his players in the right position. Odell Beckham Jr. had a monster first half, as he had 6 receptions for 139 yards. In the second half, he only had one catch for 7 yards. It was great to see for Falcons fans because the team made obvious halftime adjustments.
A star player on the defense in today’s game was Kroy Biermann. Biermann is a player that has been scrutinized throughout his entire career, but today he showed his true potential. On 3rd and 2 with 3:36 remaining, the Giants tried to run it up the middle with Rashad Jennings. Biermann blew up the play, and made a tackle for a one-yard loss. It was a huge play in the game, as the Falcons took back possession. Have to give credit where credit is due, Kroy Biermann played great football today.
Having many doubters, Atlanta proved they are a better team than many expected heading into the season. Granted it has been two games, but they have played two pretty solid teams, and won both. They have two wins against two NFC teams, and they will look to raise that number next Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. In a fourth quarter comeback, the Falcons showed true resilience. Atlanta has not been successful in MetLife in recent years, and they finally found a way to overcome the hump.
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Photographer: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire