Atlanta Falcons Lose To Carolina Panthers, 34-10, After Multiple Penalties And Interceptions
Nov 3, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws the ball as Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Linden Gaydosh (98) pressures in the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
The Carolina Panthers were just too much for a poor Atlanta Falcons offense to overcome this Sunday, and now after dropping to 2-6, it looks like their playoff hopes are over.
It’s a bit shocking to think that after just nine weeks into the season, the Falcons won’t have a shot at a deep playoff run. Coming into the season, Atlanta was supposed to be one of the better teams in the league.
They have been anything but.
The first half wasn’t too bad for the Falcons, and near the end of the second quarter the momentum seemed to be moving back into Atlanta’s favor. The defensive line was putting some really good pressure on Cam Newton, and Tony Gonzalez could not be stopped.
Aside from some nice picks from Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford, those two things would be the high points of the game.
Matt Ryan played poorly, the running game wasn’t great and the team racked up way too many bad penalties–one of which forced the team to kick a field goal, instead of having a shot at a touchdown in the red zone.
The penalties and Matt Ryan’s play definitely stick out to me as the reason for the Falcons losing this one. Ryan threw for 219 yards and a touchdown, but also tossed up three interceptions–including a pick six.
The team ended the game with seven penalties (59 total penalty yards) compared to just two (15 yards) from the Panthers.
All in all, it was an extremely disappointing game for the Falcons who came into Carolina desperately needing a win to keep the season alive.
It looks like its about over now.
For my detailed notes and thoughts on the game, be sure to check out my storify stream below: