To end a Sunday full of great NFL games, we were treated to a rematch of last year's NFC Championship game. Matt Ryan and the Falcons took the field in their new stadium to have a late night battle with Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. The Packers started out strong, going for a touchdown on the first drive. But after that, it was a downhill mess from there. Aaron Rodgers was getting battered and bruised all night without his starting left tackles. The Falcon offense looks like they can win a championship now, pouring on the point against a not so good Packers defense.
The Packers were knocked down and couldn't get back up as they lost 34-23.
Fly high Falcons
The Falcons began the game with an even dose of running and passing plays. They scored on their first drive and got into a groove after that. The run game played a big role in the Falcons' ability to get the ball moving. Devonta Freeman showed why he was worth that new contract he received in the offseason by rushing for 84 yards and two touchdowns. Freeman's patience as a runner was in full effect this game, waiting for the right hole to open and then bursting through for good yardage.
Success in the run game allowed Matt Ryan to use the play action pass to hit his receivers running open. The Packers secondary has the chance to get exposed every week and this week was no different.
Julio Jones had another 100-yard performance and the No. 2 receiver Mohamed Sanu racked up 85 yards. The Ryan threw for 252 yards and a single touchdown, but he was in control of the offense for the entire game.
Beat up Packers
One phrase can easily sum up the night for the Packers: beat up. The Falcons defense put the hits on all the players for the Packers, especially Aaron Rodgers.
Rodgers didn't have his two starting tackles, and he missed them greatly. Rodgers was hit all night, and one of those hits caused a fumble that turned into a Falcons touchdown. Rodgers did throw his 300th touchdown pass and was the fastest player to do so. Rodgers did also throw a pick which led to points before the half.
A number of Packers left the game with injuries.
Rodgers' top receivers Jordy Nelson (quad) and Randall Cobb (shoulder) left the game with injuries and will take the week to see if they are good to go next week. On the defensive side, Mike Daniels (hamstring), Davon House (quad), and Kentrell Brice (groin) all left with injuries. The Packers were being bullied on all sides on the ball, and they need to regroup before their game next week. As for the Falcons, they look like they are trying to make up for that infamous 28-3 blown lead, by getting them a Super Bowl.
