Tag: AJ Terrell

Atlanta Falcons Right the Ship in Tampa Bay

10.27.24 Falcons at Buccaneers

Article by Allison Smith

Photos Courtesy of Atlanta Falcons

Captains for the game are Jake Matthews, Grady Jarrett and Jessie Bates, they make the call on the coin toss and lose, Tampa Bay elects to receive the ball.

Tampa Bay begins on their own 30 with a Baker Mayfield hand off to Rachaad White for 8 yards, stopped by David Onyemata. On 2nd and 2, White goes up the middle, as he is going down Jessie Bates punches the ball out for a fumble. The Falcons take over at the 43.

The Falcons’ first play is a hand off to Bijan Robinson to the left for no gain. On 2nd and 9, Kirk Cousins rolls back to throw to Drake London for a 6-yard gain on the left side. On 3rd and 3, Cousins quick looks and misses London in the middle with lots of traffic. On 4th and 3 from Tampa’s 36, Cousins in the shot gun, London in motion, throws to Kyle Pitts at the 15 who runs in for the touchdown. The extra point is good and with 12:52 off the clock, the Falcons take the lead 7 – 0.

From their own 20, Tampa QB Baker Mayfield with the play fake, then pass to Bucky Irving, Nate Landman holds onto him with a Bates stop after a gain of 8 yards. On 2nd down, Irving with the run along the right side for the first down. From the 40, Mayfield hands the ball to White for a 5-yard gain, stopped by Grady Jarrett. Mayfield drops back to throw, cannot find anyone, so a near lateral throw to Irving and stopped behind the line by Demone Harris. On 3rd and 8, Mayfield passes near the first down marker, but stopped short. Mayfield with the QB sneak for the half yard, drops the ball, but falls on it. At midfield, a handoff to Irving who easily rushed through the line and gains 15 yards before finally getting pulled down by Landman. Too many defenders running around blocks and out of position to make the play. At the Falcons’ 39, handoff to Irving for a couple of yards, stopped by TQ Graham. Mayfield finds a receiver over the middle for a 6-yard gain, Arnold Ebiketie with the stop. On 3rd and 4, handoff to White, stopped by Richie Grant right at the first down marker. First down at the 24, another handoff for an 8-yard run to the left side. Hand off to Irving, up the middle again for 9 -yard gain, finally stopped by 27/21? From the 12, Mayfield in the shotgun, another handoff to White, for a short gain. On 2nd and goal from the 5, 3 receivers in, play fake, Mayfield flushed by Jarrett, Mayfield has to throw the ball away. On 3rd down, Mayfield looking into the middle of the field where Cade Otton catches the touchdown inside the goal line, with Bates in coverage.

Q1 4:22 Falcons 7/Buccaneers 7

On first down, the Falcons start with a play fake by Cousins to Darnell Mooney on the Falcons’ side of the 50, then runs to the Tampa 42, a 28-yard gain. Next is a hand off to Tyler Allgeier, who gains a few yards. On 2nd and 8, Cousins throws just off the hands of Mooney, slight arm tip by the defender as Cousins releases the ball – Chris Lindstrom off the block. On 3rd down, Cousins was nearly sacked due to Kaleb McGary not blocking at all, and throws the ball away. Bradley Pinion kicks the ball that lands and bounces for a stop at the 3-yard line.

On first down, Tampa rushes for no gain. On 2nd and 10, Mayfield from the end zone, throws up to Otton for a first down. From the 14, play fake, deep drop, Sean Tucker is wide open and makes the first down and stopped there by AJ Terrell. Tucker running for 4 yards, another stop by Terrell. On 2nd and 7, false start backs the Bucs up and the quarter ends.

End of Q1: Falcons 7/Buccaneers 7

Quarter two begins with Tampa at their own 19 with a 2nd and 12. Mayfield with a quick throw for 7 yards and immediately stopped by Clark Phillips. Mayfield with time, throws to midfield to Otton who carries several Falcons with him and is finally stopped after 29 yards by Ellis. Mayfeild gets by Matthew Judon for another 7-yard gain. On 2nd and 3, Irving easily goes up the middle for a first down, stopped by Dee Alford. From the 31, Mayfield hands off to Irving and gains a single yard, Alford in the nickelback position and trips him up behind the line. On 2nd and 9, Mayfield finds Otton in the middle of the line and –Smith sees he is not being blocked, so finds the receiver for the quick stop. On 3rd and 6, Otton catches and is shoved out of bounds by Phillips after the first down. At the Falcons’ 18, Mayfield throws a short pass to White who goes in for the 18-yard touchdown. Bates gets called for an unsportsmanlike conduct for knocking the ball out of White’s hands after the touchdown, as words are exchanged.

Q2, 10:28 Tampa 14/Atlanta 7

Starting at their own 30, Robinson takes the ball up the right side for 7 yards. on 2nd and 3, Ray Ray McCloud and Charlie Woerner on the right side, Robinson fights for 2 yards, stopped short of the first down. Robison to the left, Cousins in the shot gun, hands the ball to Robinson who runs through the line for the first down. Allgeier comes in, Pitts to the right, London on the left side. Fake to McCloud in motion, then drops off to McCloud in the left flat. McCloud gains 6 yards before being shoved out of bounds. Allgeier up the middle for a first down up the middle. In tempo, Cousins play fake to Allgeier, throws a bomb to Mooney near the goal line, but the defender knocks the ball out of Mooney’s hands. Ball was a tad short and late. Cousins in the shot gun, hits Pitts at the 35 who goes into the end zone for a called touchdown. The defender knocks the ball out right at the goal line as Pitts is carrying the ball behind him like a loaf of bread. After review, the touchdown stands.

Kyle Pitts Touchdown Reception – Courtesy of Shanna Lockwood

Q2 7:19 Atlanta 14/Tampa Bay 14

Mayfield play fake, finds a receiver, but it called back by penalty for rolling up on Judon’s ankles. First and 25 from the 15, a gain of 9 with a big stop by Kaden Ellis. On 2nd and 16, Mayfield throws up to the receiver at the 30 who gains another few yards. Now at 3rd and 7, Mayfield throws behind the receiver who was wide open due to man coverage, while 2 defenders crossed up in the outside route. Avery Williams at the 25, takes the punt up 14 yards to the 39-yard line.

Starting at their own 39, on first down, Cousins shoots for London at midfield for a 13-yard gain. Robinson and 3 receivers to the left, Cousins loops to Robinson for 6 yards. Next down, Mooney and London to the right, Cousins and Robinson in the pistol, Robinson takes the ball up 8 yards. First and 10 from the 34, in a busted play, Cousins runs right toward the sideline and slides down. On 2nd and 12, Pitts and London to the right with London in motion, Robinson gets the reception after a late, tight throw for 6. Then, on 3rd and 6, from the shotgun at the 30, Cousins waits, then finds Mooney at the 5 who takes it in for the touchdown.

Q2 2:09 Falcons 21/Buccaneers 14

From the 30, Mayfield’s pass is batted in the air at the line by Onyemata. White takes the ball up the right side and is met hard by Bertrand and stopped after a 4-yard gain.

2:00 minute warning

Third and 5 from the Tampa 34, Mayfield finds a receiver at the Falcons 40, stopped by Grant immediately. Ellis is sitting on the field injured, gets up limping, but doesn’t appear to be too injured as he heads to the tent. Mayfield drops back and throws the bomb into the end zone – but is way over thrown and incomplete out of the end zone. On 2nd down, a short pass and the receiver is immediately stopped by Bates who was running to the receiver before the ball was thrown. On 3rd and 8, Mayfield passes up for a 5-yard gain, laid out by Landman and Alford. On 4th and a long 3, Mayfield under center, trying to draw the Falcons’ defense offsides, call a time out. Buccaneers kick a 52-yard field goal.

Q2 1:04 Falcons 21/Buccaneers 17

Ray Ray McCloud takes the kick off up to the 30. With 58 seconds remaining in the half, in the pistol set, snap to Cousins, guns it to London at the 37 who goes out of bounds. Next pass is just off the fingertips of Pitts – too high. On 3rd and 3, Pitts has to double clutch the ball, but makes the first down in the middle of the field. On 1st down, Robinson runs out of bounds near midfield. At the Bucs’ 49, they call time out with 24 seconds remaining. First and 10, Cousins finds Mooney at the 28 for 21 yards. A quick pass to Pitts for 3 yards who goes out of bounds. Raheem Morris calls the Falcons’ final time out.

With 13 seconds remaining, Cousins is incomplete to London near the 5. On 3rd and 8 with 9 seconds left, the offense stays on the field. Cousins from the shotgun, out of bounds over Mooney. A defensive penalty gives a first down and moves the ball to the 21. Younghoe Koo comes on the field for the 39-yard field goal.

Halftime: Atlanta 24/Tampa Bay 17

McCloud takes the kickoff up to the 27, where the Falcons’ offense will begin the 2nd half of the game. A quick toss to Robinson on the left side goes for a 15-yard gain. A flag on Mooney for a 10-yard penalty. Now, first and 17 from the 21. Robinson is taken down after a 2-yard gain. From the pistol, Cousins finds McCloud for a loss of 3 yards, no blocking taking place in the last two downs. On 3rd and 21, Cousins hands to Robinson for 12 yards to give Pinion some space. Pinion punts to the 26, returner goes up to the 37, Allgeier for the stop.

Tampa’s first possession of the 2nd half begins on their 39. Handoff to Irving, Jarrett in the back field, but Irving spinning and avoiding tackles, for a ½ yard gain. On 2nd down, Mayfield from the gun, he ends up running the ball, stopped by Elliss, but there was holding on the offense so the Bucs are backed up to their 30. The hold was on Jarrett – who still almost made the tackle, getting a paw on Mayfield. White makes the next reception, with a gain of 7, forcing a 3rd and 12. All out blitz is coming, but the receiver makes the catch, just crossing the first down line. Ruke Orhorhoro is down, then assisted off the field, favoring his right leg. A play fake and Mayfield sips the ball to Irving who avoids and escapes tackles and is finally shoved out after 13 yards, by Landman. Inside the Falcons’ 38, Mayfield to Irving to Mayfield……and JESSIE BATES with the reception/INTERCEPTION.

Jessie Bates Interception – Courtesy of Jay Bendlin

From the 8, Robinson in motion, Allgeier gets nearly 5 yards to the 13. On 2nd down, Allgeier is the lone setback, London and Mooney to the right, hand to Allgeier who pushes up to the 18 for a first down, with Allgeier carrying the linebacker for the tackle. Cousins tosses to Allgeier to the right side for a 3-yard gain, shoved out of bounds. Woerner with good blocking. Allgeier barrels out to a yard short of the first, on the next play Allgeier gains the first down and another 10 yards. As Dave Archer says, “here comes the bowling ball of razor blades.” Next play is a bust with the first sack of the game. Matthew Bergeron and Ryan Neuzil cannot hold off the rushing defenders. On the next play, Robison gains 7 yards, but injuries on both sides pause the game. Chris Lindstrom is down for the Falcons. It’s 3rd and 12 from the 35, Kyle Hinton in for Lindstrom, Cousins finds McCloud for 5 yards. Pinion punts.

Tampa begins at their own 31, with the play fake, a quick dump off for a 5-yard gain, knocked out of bounds by Mike Hughes. Both backs are in the game, Irving with a short gain to the right, Zack Harris and Ellis for the quick stop. On 3rd and 3, Mayfield from the gun, with pressure, lobs the ball out early and the ball is over the receiver with Judon in tight coverage. On for the punt, the Bucs try a fake by snapping to the upback, and was blown up by KhaDarel Hodge.

From the Bucs’ 36-yard line, Cousins hands to Robinson and runs 36 yards for the touchdown. A flag on the play, for McCloud holding and tackling the safety. Backed up to the 46, it is 1st and 20, from the gun, Cousins hands to Robinson for a 5-yard gain. On 2nd and 15, a reception by Robinson for another 10 yards. Lined up quickly, Cousins finds Mooney for the first down at the 24-yard line. Mooney made the catch a yard short, looked at the down marker and stopped to adjust and go the additional yardage before getting knocked out of bounds. With a new set of downs, Cousins hands to McCloud on the sweep, he trips over McGary, gets up and keeps going to the 7. On first down, Allgeier is quickly stopped by Vita Vea. It’s 2nd and goal, Woerner and McCloud to the left, Mooney in motion, Cousin drops it to Robinson who runs to the goal line, stops to miss the defender tackle, then takes the final step into the end zone. Robison was the 4th option, but wide open on the left side. Bijan celebrates with the Dirty Dancing lift by Bergeron. (That was my take as I just watched the movie again yesterday afternoon.)

Q3 :014 Falcons 31/Buccaneers 17

After the kickoff, the Bucs begin on their 30 with a Mayfield pass to Irving for 6 yards, shoved out by Elliss.

End of Q3

From the 36, 2nd down and 4, the running back goes up 17 yards and finally taken out by Terrell. From the 47, Mayfield under center, he passes up the middle of the field for a 20-yard gain, tackled after a few yards by Grant. From the 27, Irving makes the 3-yrad reception and regret it as Terrell makes a hard stop. On the next play, from the 24 (to the 24), Mayfield drops back and throws to the 6 where AJ TERRELL makes another pick.

AJ Terrell With 2nd Pick of the Season – Courtesy of Jay Bendlin

The Falcons’ offense takes the field with nearly 13 minutes left in game from their own 6-yard line. Cousins is under center, hands off to Allgeier who was immediately wrapped up by Vea. Cousins hand to Allgeier who fumbles the ball, but is knocked out of the end zone for a touchback and safety. Allgeier never really had the ball, but luckily Mooney went after it and got it knocked out of the back of the end zone.

Q4 12:04 Atlanta 31/Tampa Bay 19

Pinion kicks to the 7, it is returned to the 27 being stopped by Antonio Hamilton and Hodge. First play is offsides and a 1st and 15 from the 22. Mayfield finds Irving, Alford gets his feet stopped and Hughes and make the shove out of bounds for a 1-yard gain. Mayfield in the gun, throws to the receiver with a sliding first down reception. With a 2nd and 6, Mayfield hesitates, then throws across midfield. From the 50, Mayfield underthrows the receiver. On 2nd down, Mayfield throws left for a 6-yard gain along the sideline against the soft corner. It is 3rd and 4, Mayfield looks up field, then runs to the 34 for another first down, stopped finally by Elliss. Throws over the head of White. Second down, loops it to white, Elliss and Jarrett wrap him up at the 26. Another 3rd and 4, pressure coming, the receiver makes the reception at the 9 with Grant on the tackle. The running back goes right for 5 yards, then short pass to Otton for another touchdown.

Q4 6:50 Falcons 31/Buccaneers 26

The Falcons begin on their own 30. London and Mooney left side, Cousins finds Woerner on the left side for a first down. Three receivers and a tight end, Woerner in motion, Robinson for a 7-yard gain, behind a good block by Hinton. On 2nd and 3 at midfield, snap to Cousins, Robinson on the right side, dragging defenders, short by 1 yard. Quick back to the line, Robinson busts through for several yards, almost broke away with a single defender on his ankle. From the Bucs’ 42, Robinson weaves through for several yards with another flag on the play. Personal foul for a facemask on Neuzil, pushing the Falcons back to the Falcons’ 43. It’s 1st and 25, Pitts and Allgeier in the game, Cousins finds London, who stays in bounds, for 11 yards. On 2nd and 14, Allgeier in the pistol with Cousins, Tampa shows man, Cousins steps in the pocket and runs to the 32, but is marked short. Tampa calls a time out.

With 3:05 to play, 3rd and 1 at the Tampa 33. Allgeier gets the call and doesn’t get the first down. On 4th and 1, Cousins under center, Atlanta calls a time out.

Two Minute Warning

Allgeier, two tight ends, Cousins barrels in with a big push with Woerner and Allgeier with the big pushes. Allgeier gets the first down call for no gain. Tampa time out. On 2nd and 10, Allgeier to the left for a 2-yard loss, tackled by Vea. Tampa time out. On 3rd and 12, Allgeier out, Robinson in, to the right side for a few yards. On 4th and 8. Falcons call a time out before the play clock expires. Koo on for the 47-yard field goal with 1:06 to go. Koo misses the field goal, giving the Buccaneers the ball at their own 36.

Mayfield throws up to the 40 tackled hard by Elliss. 45 seconds, Mayfield can’t find a receiver, finally over throws the receiver with Grant in tight coverage. With 40 seconds to go, 3 receivers on the left side, quick throw to the 47 for a first down, tackled by Hughes. Mayfield finds a receiver at the Falcons’ 33. Second level throws are killing the Falcons defense. With 9 seconds to go, Mayfield downs the ball and then Falcons call their final time out. At the 33, the Bucs are offsides and moved back to the 38. Second and 15, Mayfield in the pocket, has to throw out of bounds stopping the clock at :06. Grant and Bates and Terrell are in the end zone. The ball is thrown into a crowd of defenders and receivers and falls incomplete.

FINAL Falcons 31 / Buccaneers 26

Early Season Momentum Swing for the Atlanta Falcons  

September 17, 2024

Article by Allison Smith

Photos Courtesy of Atlanta Falcons

Never count the Falcons out. Especially in a close game in prime time. For the world to see, after losing the first game of the season, at home, without giving up a touchdown, the Falcons fought to not become the 10th team with an 0-2 start to the 2024 season. And in good timing. The first 6 games are pretty tough, good Pittsburg and Philadelphia teams, the defending Super Bowl champs of Kansas City, then, the Falcons make their first run through the NFC South. Two of the NFC South teams are 2-0. Also of note, 3 of those games, while at home, are in a 12-day window, 2 prime time games, before heading up 85N to Carolina.

All that to say, this was a good time to win and get some momentum started for the season. The defense was lights out in both games, only giving up (long) field goals in game one. In Philadelphia, they made some great stands as well. A stop on 4th down, a touchdown pass deflected forcing a field goal. All in a very hostile and loud environment. The Falcons’ D went toe to toe with a great offense. Their win Monday night really validated the defense and Head Coach Raheem Morris and the plans for 2024. This sets the team up well to host Kansas City this coming week. The fourth and one stop early in the game, set the tone. There was better tackling overall this week. Saquan Barkley and Jalen Hurts definitely were harder to get down, but only gave up a few big plays.

Jessie Bates was the all-star of the win Monday night. Not because of the game winning interception, but he led the team in tackles, is always active and applying pressure, leader on and off the field. But his actual biggest play of the night was knocking that touchdown catch out of the receiver’s hand – stopping a third quarter touchdown that would have put the game out of reach. The Eagles settled for a field goal. Jessie finished with 12 tackles, 7 solo, 1 tackle for loss, 2 passes defended……oh, and an interception. Being so aggressive, Bates did outrun the play a few times, was out of position giving Hurts some extra yards, but he is always the closer in the end.

Justin Simmons is making his presence felt, knocking folks around last night (5 tackles), which will continue and show why he was brought in. Speaking of newly added free agents, Matthew Judon had a sack, 6 tackles, 2 for loss. Grady Jarrett was a beast on the inside as usual, while only having 2 tackles, he had 3 quarterback hits (most on the team) and often chased Hurts out of the pocket and forced errant throws. Speaking of affecting the quarterback, Kaden Elliss was a step away for Hurts as he released his last ball of the night, that found its way into Bates’ hands. Elliss amassed 11 tackles (2nd most) and 1 QB hit. Troy Anderson followed with 9 and AJ Terrell with 7 total, all solo. Elliss and Anderson struggled a little with open field tackles on Barkley and Hurts, but made up for it with the rest or their play. Arnold Ebiketie and David Onyemata stepped up later in the game and had 3 tackles a piece.

We are starting to see some new, good things from the O. Still think we need to use Drake London and Kyle Pitts more, but definitely see the impact of adding Darnell Mooney and Clemson boy Ray Ray McCloud. Kudos to the Falcons for actually using him as a receiver instead of just a returner. Everyone slept on Ray Ray, except for Rah and Terry Fontenot (and me). Similarly, Mooney never was appreciated or used enough in Chicago, but getting him more active in this offense is going to spread it out and allow everyone to get in on the action. Mooney had a touchdown, a 41-yard reception, and lots of motion in the backfield. Seeing Drake fake the post and catch that touchdown shows why he is so special and drafted so high, now that we are using him correctly. Drake’s first visit back in end zone since the London, England game October of 2023.

Kyle and Bijan Robinson were picking up blitzes and chipping guys….so even though Kyle didn’t have huge numbers, he had them when we needed them and blocking, giving Kirk Cousins a few more seconds to make decisions and get completions. Bijan is just a beast, still can’t believe this is his second year in the NFL. Overall, Kirk was composed and calmly led the team down the field for the game winning touchdown.

Bijan’s breaking tackles, and the consistency with the run game between Bijan and Tyler Allgeier, really opened up the offense, credit to OC Zac Robinson. Tyler and Bijan ran well behind the offensive line against a stout Eagles’ defense. Got a broad stroke catalog of what this offense can and will do. Zac Robinson is just now scratching the surface of this new offense, now that we are out of the bland pre-season.

Cousins was 20 of 29 for 241 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions and sack, due to Chris Lindstrom not holding his block long enough. Cousins was more mobile this week and spread the ball around pretty well. Especially on the final drive, going 5 of 6 for 70 yards and the touchdown, note that the 1 incompletion should have been PI for Ray Ray, but here we are. Overall, Mooney was targeted 7 times, caught 3 for 88 yards, 47 on the final drive.

London caught 6 of 7 passes for 54 yards, Ray Ray caught 3 of 5 (again, 1 should have been a PI), making several conversions early. Pitts caught 3 of 4 for 20 yards, 2 of those receptions in the final drive. Bijan caught 4 balls for 25 yards with Tyler catching his only target for 12 yards. In the run game, Bijan carried 14 times for 97 yards, while Tyler had 9 carries for 53 yards. Tyler had more playing time this week, but still not as much as they could do with this two headed monster.

The offensive line was much better this week. The first drive of the 2nd half was a pass to Bijan, then 2 Bijan runs, another pass to Bijan, then 3 Tyler runs before a sack and field goal. This series really gassing the defense. The O line was holding up and really making the strong Philly defense work. Cousins was only pressured 5 of his 25 drop backs. Matthew Bergeron and Drew Dalman were much improved, while Lindstrom did struggle some. But there were no penalties on the line.

Overall, there were only 3 penalties on the whole team, 2 of which were on Drake for celebrating and Ray Ray, for – no one knows. The third was on JD Bertrand covering a punt and blocking above the waist. That is a really clean game.

This game was well worth staying up past midnight to watch the dramatic end, celebrate online with fellow fans, and hear and see all of the interviews and excitement from the team.

Have a feeling this is going to be a good season.

In Rah We Trust

RiseUp

FalconAlleyOwt

Atlanta Falcons Brotherhood Won Out in the City of Brotherly Love on Monday Night

September 16, 2024

Article by Allison Smith

Photos curtesy of Atlanta Falcons

Inactives for this week include, several of the draft rookies, Jase McClellan, Ruke Orhorhoro, and Brandon Dolus. Nate Landman went on injured reserve, opening up space for Kevin King to the active roster. Dane Cruikshank and Casey Washington are elevated from the practice squad.

The Atlanta Falcons won the toss and deferred to take the ball to start the second half. Bradley Pinion kicked to the 5 and the ball was returned to the 33-yard line. First play was a pass over the middle to the 47, stopped by Troy Anderson and Jessie Bates. The second play was a pass completion, quickly jammed and stopped by AJ Terrell, but was called back due to an ineligible man down field . On 1st and 15 from the 42, the running back is quickly shoved out of bounds my Mike Hughes for a 1-yard gain. Jalen Hurts on a quick throw close to the original line of scrimmage and forced out by Justin Simmons. On 3rd down, Hurts with 3 to the right from the shotgun, takes the ball himself and is quickly shut down by Anderson, leaving it at 4 and 6 for the punt.

High punt to Avery Williams and the ball drops and stops at the 8. First play is Bijan Robinson running left for 7 yards, then another 7. After an incompletion by Kurt Cousins, on 2nd and 10, Cousins finds Drake London for a 6-yard completion.  Another incompletion to Robinson, forces the punt.

First at 10 from the Eagles’ 36, Hurts hands off to Saquan Barkley for 9 yards before Richie Grant made the stop. On 2nd and 1, Hurst finds his receiver on the perimeter who crossed midfield. Dee Alford missed the initial tackle and allows the first down. Another handoff to Barkley, stopped by Terrell and Bates short of the first down. On 2nd and 1, Hurts from the shotgun with a play fake and pressured, the receiver catches the ball and is rolled out of bounds by Anderson, after 4 yards, but a 1st down. First and 10 from the 36, Barkley again for the first down, stopped at the maker by Bates. From the 26, Barkley again for another 10 yards. Anderson missed the tackle at the line, but Dyland Drummund gets the stop. From the 15, another reception for 4 yards. On 2nd down, the receiver is stopped by Hughes after a couple of yard gain. Barkley comes back in the game, 3 guys to the left, Barkley in the backfield, Hurts with lots of time, but no open receivers, he finally throws into the end zone where Grant knocks the ball incomplete. The Falcons rushed 4 and had everyone tied up. On 4th and 4 from the 9, Hurts calls a time out. Barkley is in the back field with Hurts, pressured, with Grady Jarrett quickly closing, Hughes knocks the pass down.

The Falcons take over on their own 9. The single back is Robinson with Ray Ray McCloud in motion. Robinson gains a single yard along the left side. McCloud and Darnell Mooney to the right side, Robinson up the middle for 16 yards and a first down at the 25. Fully loaded pistol, Robinson along the right side for another 3 yards. Tyler Allgeier comes in on 2nd down and 7, where he goes for a couple of yards, then on 3rd and 5 from the Drake London is in motion, Cousins nearly throws a pick out of London’s hands, but the defender was out of bounds.

Pinion punts and the Eagles start on their own 25. First down, Hurts from the pistol hands to Barkley who gains a single yard, swarmed by the defense. Two tights to the left, Hurts finds a receiver, AJ Terrell was flying in and made the stop after 5 yards. On 3rd and 4, almost a 5 front, Hurts barely escapes David Onyemata with Kaden Elliss applying even more pressure forcing the errant pass that falls incomplete along the sideline with Dee Alford ensuring no completion.

After the punt, Play action fake to Robinson, Cousins finds London in the middle of the field for a 19-yard gain at the 46 as the first quarter expires.

From the 46, Cousins hands to Allgeier who crosses midfield. On 2nd and 6, a quick pass to Allgeier who gains the first down and more. From the 38, Allgeier gets the call again and he takes the ball left to the 20, barely stopped from a touchdown. Robinson gets the ball and fumbles/juggles the ball, but retains the ball at the 24. From the 25, Robinson gets the call again and gains a yard. A time out is taken by the Falcons. On 3rd and 9, Cousins can’t find a receiver and runs for a single yard gain. Younghoe Koo makes a 39-yard field goal.

Philly begins at their own 30. Hurts in the shotgun with Barkley next to him, after rolling off his own player, gains 4 yards. Matthew Judon was shoving the offensive lineman into Barkley. Hurts drops back to pass for a 19-yard gain, Alford with the immediate stop. At midfield, Hurts dancing in the pocket, Jarrett chasing him nearly out of bounds, throws out of bounds. On 2nd and 10, Hurts has single receivers on each side, hands off to Barkley and Judon was already there making the stop for a 1-yard loss. On 3rd and 11, two receivers on each side, a quick pass for 8 yards, Bates and Anderson immediately make the stop. On 4th and 3, Hurts drops back, then runs for 23 yards. Hurts gets a penalty for spiking the ball, it is first and 15 on the 23. Atlanta does not allow the running back to move, being tackled by 4 defenders. Now on 2nd and 20, two receivers on each side, Hurts runs up the middle to the 19, where Kaden Elliss then Anderson make the stop. On 3rd and 11, a 3 man look to the left, from the shotgun, Hurts runs along the right side and outruns all of the defense to get to the 4. After an incomplete pass, there is an ineligible man down field, the Eagles are backed up to the 9. On first and goal, Hurts throws across the field, Justin Simmons makes the hard stop at the 7. On 2nd and goal, Hurts with time, finds DeVonta Smith for the touchdown over the middle, covered by Bates, Grant, and Elliss. The extra point is good.

With 5:15 left in Q2, Philadelphia 7 – Atlanta 3

Williams takes the ball from the 1 up to the 23, with a flag for a block in the back, the Falcons begin this drive on the 14. Cousins is under center, with a sweep to McCloud to the right for 2 yards. On 2nd down, play fake to Kyle Pitts for 2 yards. On 3rd and 6, lots of crowd noise, Cousins finds McCloud in the middle for a big first down at the 35. Robinson gets 9 yards along the left side. After a big first down run for 15 yards by Robinson, the Falcons are at midfield. On 1st down, Cousins play fakes, double pumps, then is sacked. A flag on Philadelphia for pass interference tackling London while Cousins is still pumping and looking. Flag moves the ball to the 41, Cousins misses Mooney on the out route. On 2nd and 10, Cousins shoots it to an open McCloud for another first down with 3 defenders swarming. McCloud gets a 15 yard penalty for unnecessary roughness as the two-minute warning arrives. Clearly, many of us do not know the rules of football. He’s a receiver.

From the 38, on 1st and 10, Cousins, in the gun, Philly bringing 4, finds Robinson on the right side for 7 yards. On 2nd and 3, Robinson goes up the middle for 14 yards to the 14. Robinson goes left and right, shakes a tackle and just keeps moving. Allgeier comes in and goes up the middle for a few yards. Cousins, from the gun, back to Allgeier to the 6. After a timeout, with 26 seconds and the ball at the 6, Cousins to Robinson, who is tackled by the facemask. The ball moves to the 3. Robinson in the backfield with Cousins, goes up the middle for no gain. After taking their final timeout and 17 seconds to go, Pitts is on the field to the left, Robinson to right, Cousins throws outside of Mooney’s reach. The Eagles call a time out. Cousins cannot find an open receiver between London, Pitts, McCloud, Mooney and throws the ball out of the end zone. Koo kicks the field goal to bring the Falcons within a point right before half.

Half Time: Atlanta 6 Philadelphia 7

After half time, the Falcons begin on their own 30. McCloud, London, Mooney to the left, play fake by Cousins, to Robinson for 7 yards. Mooney was streaking across the field open. On 2nd and 3, Robinson gets across midfield quickly. Robinson gets the ball again and falls to the 39. Mooney to the left, London and McCloud move to the left, Robinson gains 13 yards. Cousins hands to Allgeier who gains 12 yards to the 14. On 1st and 10, Mooney in motion, Allgeier pushes down to the 10. On 2nd and 5, Charlie Woerner to the left, Allgeier around the left corner knocked out of bounds at the 8. It’s 3rd and 4 from the 8, Cousins in the gun, looks left and is sacked at the 18. Chris Lindstrom could not hold his block. Koo for a 34-yard field goal.

Falcons take the lead 9 to 7 over the Eagles

After the kickoff, the Eagles begin on their own 30. Hurts hands off to Barkley for a quick 9-yard gain, stopped by Anderson. On 2nd and 1, another run up the middle for an easy first down. From the 43, Hurts drops back and then starts to run when JUDON sacks him spinning. After a loss of 4 yards, Hurts drops back again, finds a wide open receiver for a first down, stopped by Alford and Ellis. From the Falcons 49, Hurts finds Barkley over the middle for another first down, stopped by Ellis at that point. On 1st down, Hurts hands to Barkley left for 4 yards, stopped by Anderson, with Jarrett clogging up the middle and limiting the run. On 2nd and 6, Hurts has 2 tights to the left, runs to the right with Bates in his face, slings the ball down to the receiver at the 18. Simmons and Terrell in coverage. Barkley up the middle for a 4-yard gain. From the 9, Hurts finds a reviver along the left side, shoved out by Terrell. From the 5, Hurts throws into the end zone, Bates knocks the ball out saving the touchdown. Philly starts to kick a field goal, then the kicker goes up to the line, then as time expires, they get a delay of game. Falcons’ field goal block team is not fooled and do not move. The field goal is good.

With 4:28 to go in the 3rd quarter, Eagles 10, Falcons 9.

After the kickoff, the Falcons begin on their own 30. Cousins in the pistol, with Allgeier, London in motion, London gets the ball makes 3 defenders miss and is finally taken out after 9 yards. Allgeier, the lone set back, gets the first down on along the right side. First and 10 from the 41, play fake to Robinson, chased way back under pressure, Cousins throws out of bounds over McCloud. 2nd down, Cousin flips to Robinson behind the line, defense swarming and the Falcons lose 2 yards. On 3rd and 12, pressure coming, Cousins finds Pitts who is 4-yards shy of the first down. The offense stays on the field, Cousins looks hard to the right at London and Pitts, then finds McCloud cutting across the field for a big first down. McCloud dumped upside down for no penalty.

Then immediately lined up, Cousins going backward finds Mooney, who refuses to go down and flips into the end zone for a touchdown! Counts as a 42-yard touchdown, but Mooney caught the ball at the 25 and made the rest on YAC. Falcons attempt the 2-point conversion, Cousins shoots it to London who is double covered and the ball is knocked out.

With 1:21 to go in Q3, Falcons lead 15 to Eagles 10.

The Eagles begin on their 30 again with 3 receivers and Barkley in th backfield. Hurts looks to throw, then runs to the left for 3 yards. Arnold Ebiketie blocked the line of sight not allowing a pass. An ineligible man down field negates the second play as he is holding/blocking/tackling Anderson. On 2nd and 13 from the 28, Hurts finds a receiver at the 36 who is tackled by Elliss.

End of Q3 – Atlanta 15 – Philadelphia 10

From the Philly 36, Hurts is chased right under allot of pressure, finally passes short right for a 9-yards gain, stopped by Alford. Hurts throws again after a yard gain, another Alford tackle/shove out of bounds. Elliss and Anderson make a quick stop after a 3-yard gain up the middle. On 3rd and 6, Hurts finds the receiver short of the first down marker, tackled behind the line by Terell. On a very short 1, Hurts, under center, shoves under the defense and gets the first down. A long count trying to draw the defense offsides, unsuccessful. From the 43, Barkley tries the right side, Alford, Hughes, then a swarm of defenders join to maintain him. On 2nd and 6, Hurst quickly passes to the receiver who is caught by Terrell immediately. It is 3rd and 2, Hurts stacks the left side, he runs up the middle, stopped by Bates after another first down. Barkley runs up the middle for 9 yards. Hurts tries to dodge, is almost sacked, but gains the first down – stopped by Ebiketieand Onyemata, gaining the 2 yards needed but not escaping. On 1st and 10 from the 12, 3 receivers left, Barkley gets the ball to the right down to the 4, but there is a holding penalty (tackling the defender) backing the Eagles up to 19 with a 1st and 16, Hurts gets to the perimeter and is stopped at the 6 by Terrell. From the 6, on a 2nd and 4, Barkley is tackled at the 5 by Eddie Goldman. Third and 3, overload on the left side, Hurts throws to Barkley on the right for the touchdown.  After the review, Barkley’s knee was down before the ball crossed the plain. From the ½ yard line, Hurts drives the pile for the touchdown. The two point conversion attempt is to Barkley who tries to hurdle the defense, a Falcon comes up with the ball, with the replay it is decided Barkley got the ball across the goal line before his knee hit the ground.

With 6:47 remaining in the game, Eagles 18 Falcons 15

Beginning at their own 30 again, Cousins hands to Robinson who gains a single yard along the right sideline. Cousins under center with 3 wide receivers to the left, drops back and throws a bomb, but Mooney slowed down and the ball went over his head. Several players from both sides got a little jumbled up and knocked off their stride. A free Philadelphia time out due to an injured player that was off the field and the defense scrambling, but the officials called it an injury time out. On 3rd and 9 from the 31, Cousins finds London close to the first down marker, measured ½ a yard short. Robinson gets the ball and is shoved back, a flag is thrown but picked back up. A Philadelphia player is running around the entire field with his helmet off, but no penalty. A TV time out and time to review the spot of the ball.

With 5:38 to play, Philadelphia has the ball at the Falcons’ 39. Barkley gets a quick first down, but called back due to offensive holding. The ball is at the 46 with a 1st and 17. Hurts hands to Barkley who is stopped in the backfield by James Smith-Williams. 2nd and 18, Hurts drops back and finds a receiver 3 yards short of the first down. Barkley to the left, Hurts with an empty set, throws to Barkley who turns the corner and got 4 yards and another first down. On 1st down, Barkley is stopped behind the line by Jarrett. On 2nd down, Barkley up the middle for another first down.

Two Minute Warning. Falcons have all 3 of their time outs. Philadelphia has the ball at the Falcons’ 18 with a 3rd and 1.

A Falcon jump offsides, they decline the penalty and get the first down. Atlanta takes their first time out. From the 17, Hurts hands off to Barkley who gets to the 14. Another Falcon time out. On 2nd and 6, Barkley gains another couple of yards and the final Falcons’ time out. On 3rd and 3, the Eagles take a time out. Barkley drops the pass which forces a 4th and 3 and stops the clock. The Eagles kick another field goal, with 1:39 to go in the game, the Eagles lead 21 to 15.

From their own 30, Cousins drops back and finds Pitts at the first down marker in the middle of the field. Cousins then throws to Mooney close to the sideline inside the 40. At the Philly 38, Cousins finds Mooney at the 14 and he takes a couple of yards then goes out of bounds. From the 12, Cousins passes to London who steps out at the 8. With 43 seconds to go, Cousins throws to McCloud in the end zone – no flag or PI with lots of contact, including being hugged as the ball is in the air. Now, on 3rd down, Cousins finds London in the end zone for a TOUCHDOWN. Tying the game with 34 seconds to go. London celebrates the touchdown, his first in a LONG time, but that is a penalty and the extra point is going to be a 49-yarder, but for Koo, that is day.

With 26 seconds to go, the Falcons lead by 1.

The Eagles begin at their 30 for a 13-yard gain, stopped by Kevin King. After their timeout, from the 43, Hurts goes deep and the ball is intercepted by none other than JESSIE BATES at the Atlanta 32.

The Falcons take the knee to win the game. The Falcons are now 1-1.

#RiseUp

FalconAlleyOwt

Practice Squad Announced

Article by Allison Smith

As I suspected……the practice squad roster is full of guys that I had on my 53-man roster. Hopefully they will stick around in Atlanta and make the 53-man during the season. Clearly, I do not want anyone hurt, but many of these guys really made some great plays in limited show time and I suspect they will see some time. I got 6 guys back in the black and red. And again, special teams is a place to make your name!

Another non-surprise was the trading of Taylor Heinicke. At least adding, then trading him got the Falcons something, a 6th round pick from the Chargers and saving $1.21 million…..with the current cap situation in Atlanta, every little bit helps.

Bolded are the guys that I had on my 53

  • Wide receiver Chris Blair
    • 8 receptions on 12 targets for 154 yards
  • Cornerback Natrone Brooks
    • 15 tackles and a forced fumble
  • Wide receiver Dylan Drummond
    • 6 of 7 receptions for 22 yards, 1 carry
  • Defensive lineman Demone Harris
    • Several years in the league, then out a year, in Falcons’ pre-season 3 tackles and a forced fumble
  • Defensive tackle Zion Logue
    • 2 tackles
  • Defensive lineman LaCale London
    • Played in 7 games in 2023, pre-season had 3 tackles and ½ a stuff
  • Wide receiver Jesse Matthews
    • 7 receptions on 12 targets for 57 yards, 2 carries for 14 yards
  • Offensive lineman Andrew Stueber
  • Running back Carlos Washington Jr.
    • 29 carries, 71 yards and a touchdown, 2 receptions for 10 yards
  • Safety Dane Cruikshank
    • With TN for 4 years, then Chicago – played Safety and Receiver and Returner sparingly. In pre-season, 3 tackles and a pass defended
  • Offensive lineman Julién Davenport
  • Cornerback Kevin King
    • Green Bay from 2017 – 2021, out of football, back to the Falcons’ pre-season 6 tackles, 1 forced fumble and an interception, returned for 29 yards. 2 passes defended and a stuff.
  • Tight end John FitzPatrick, Georgia boy
    • 6 of 9 catches for 33 yards and a leap over a defender. Played in 9 games in 2023 with 1 target and reception of 12 yards.

Every step gets us closer to the season. We are less than 2 weeks away now. Kirk Cousins, happy with the in-laws and family all together, gelled with the offense and ready to use these weapons. Bijan Robinson is in his 2nd year, he can only get better. Drake London and Kyle Pitts have another year under their belts to learn, but now are playing with a real leader.

Grady Jarrett is entering year 10, bigger, badder and healthy and ready to prove he’s back. The defense is on fire and stacked from line to backfield. AJ Terrell is locked in with a new contract. Jessie Bates is still Jessie Bates. With excellent additions through the draft this year and last, as well as the high profile free agents of Justin Simmons and Matthew Judon. Lots of young, hungry guys, ready to make some stops.

And this coaching staff, young coordinators from the Sean McVay coaching tree and Raheem Morris at the helm with so much experience on both sides of the ball, and the heart and mind of a champion. He is a players’ coach, but not making friends over excellent players. Everyone will be held accountable, but more positive reinforcement than negativity and yelling. Lots of collaboration and input from players and all of the coaches, everyone coming up with new and better ideas.

This season is going to be an exciting one, especially starting off hosting Pittsburg OC Arthur Smith who has given the Falcons (or the fans at least) bulletin board material with his “I’m not saying we are going to score 40 in Atlanta, but hope to…..” Good luck with that. Not on this D, not with you as the OC.

I’m not saying that I guarantee a win, but I am saving vacation days to use for a SuperBowl trip in February 2025.

The 53 for the 2024 Atlanta Falcons is Set

Article by Allison Smith

Cover Photo Courtesy of Atlanta Falcons

August 27, 2024

For limited game viewing, I did a pretty good job at picking the 53-man roster. Not that many misses and usually trade for trade, short of the offensive line.

Bolded were my picks for the roster that the Falcons agreed. Regular font, I picked and got cut, italicized is on the Falcons’ roster that I missed.

Granted I didn’t have enough on the offensive line, but I don’t study that as much as other positions. The big surprises to me, not just because I was wrong, are Chris Blair, Carlos Washington, Jr, Kevin King, and Natrone Brooks. I think a couple of these guys will be back on the practice squad tomorrow. King played safety and cornerback. Brooks at corner and in the return game. Hopefully some or all of these guys will make it back for special teams and farther onto the roster. And PLEASE no one get hurt, but if someone does…..these are some great “next man up.”

I also think that Taylor Heinicke may get traded for something or released after some other back up quarterbacks are out there for viewing. And I don’t mean Desmond Ridder since Arizona released him earlier today.

QB: Kirk Cousins, Michael Penix, Jr Taylor Heinicke – need a third, don’t think he is currently on the team

O Line: Jake Matthews, Kaleb McGarity, Matthew Bergeron, Storm Norton, Chris Lindstrom, Drew Dalman (need additional here – but not an o line expert or fan) Ryan Neuzil, Kyle Hinton, Jovaughn Gwyn

WR: Drake London, Ray-Ray McCloud, KhaDarel Hodge, Casey Washington, Chris Blair, Darnell Mooney

TE: Kyle Pitts, Charlie Woerner, Ross Dwelley John Fitzpatrick

RB: Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier, Jase McClellan, Avery Williams, Carlos Washington, Jr

Dline: Grady Jarrett, Ruke Orhorhoro, Zion Logue, Brandon Dorlus, Kentavius Street, David Onyemata, Zach Harrison, Ta’Quon Graham, Eddie Goldman

CB: AJ Terrell; Natrone Brooks, Kevin King (at CB or S), Dee Alford, Jayden Price Mike Hughes, Clark Phillips III, Antonio Hamilton, Sr

LB: Troy Anderson, JD Bertrand, Lorenzo Carter, Arnold Ebiketie, Kaden Elliss, Matthew Judon, Nate Landman, DeAngelo Malone James Smith-Williams

S: Jessie Bates, Justin Simmons, Micah Abernathy, Richie Grant (DeMarcco Hellams – when he returns)

And our starting to be questionable ST: Liam McCullough, Younghoe Koo, Bradley Pinion

Now, we wait and see what happens with other teams, who is released, added to team practice squads and what happens to the 53 before the biggest date of the year…..Sunday, September 8 – when the Era of Rah really begins.