ATL Standard

As the Atlanta Falcons took on the Carolina Panthers, offensive coordinator Zac Robinson engaged with quarterback Kirk Cousins to ensure the game plan aligned with his preferences. Cousins expressed a clear preference: "I like running the football."

The opening play featured a 6-yard gain by Bijan Robinson, setting the tone for a robust ground game. By halftime, both Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier were averaging over 5 yards per carry, contributing to more than 70 rushing yards.

Cousins was resolute about their strategy: "Let's do it until they stop it." The Panthers struggled against this approach as the Falcons secured a 38-20 victory. Both Robinson and Allgeier achieved over 95 rushing yards each, pushing the team's total ground gain to over 200 yards before final kneel downs adjusted it to 198.

Bijan Robinson recorded two rushing touchdowns and totaled 105 yards from scrimmage, matching Allgeier's performance who also scored a touchdown. This marked the first time since October 2016 that two Falcons running backs surpassed 100 scrimmage yards in one game.

Tyler Allgeier reflected on their persistent strategy postgame: "(We) just kept hitting 'em, hitting 'em, hitting 'em," leading to wearing down their opponents.

Head coach Raheem Morris highlighted the team's ability to adapt offensively across different games. The previous week saw Cousins amassing 509 passing yards in an overtime win against Tampa Bay Buccaneers; this week showcased their effective rushing attack.

Morris commented on their adaptability: "I think we are just taking what (defenses) are giving us." For Cousins, this balance is crucial: "Sometimes," he said, "you throw to score and you run to win."

This performance marked an essential victory for Atlanta in their first win of 2024.