Atlanta Falcons Week Ten Grades Vs Cleveland
The Atlanta Falcons had their three game winning streak snapped, with a surprising loss to the lowly Cleveland Browns. Let’s take a closer look at what Dirty Birds flew high, and those who had their wings clipped.
Offensive Player of the Game
Austin Hooper – Tight End
The Cleveland Browns decided to play cover two-man and cover two zone most of the game against Atlanta. This consists of leaving both safeties high, in an attempt to prevent big plays. Atlanta Falcons Tight end Austin Hooper was the beneficiary, catching a career high 10 passes on 11 targets for 56 yards.
Austin Hooper also scored a touchdown, the final touchdown of the game for Atlanta. The three yard score came on a 4th down and three. Ryan was rushed and nearly sacked on the play, but instead put Hooper up to bat on a jump ball. Austin jumped up, made the catch, broke a tackle and crossed into the end zone.
Austin Hooper also did a great job of blocking as well. Pro Football Focus gave Hooper a run blocking grade of 67.6, fourth on the team. He also stayed in to pass block four times and did not allow any pressure on Matt Ryan. His pass blocking grade was 72.9.
The amount of time that Austin Hooper spent around Matt Ryan in the offseason is definitely paying off in on field chemistry. Hooper has already tied his career best of three touchdowns on the season. He is on pace to smash his previous best in nearly every statistical category.
Austin Hooper is our offensive player of the game for his performance in the disappointing loss.