ATL Standard

The Atlanta Falcons suffered a significant defeat against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, highlighting several issues that need addressing. Head coach Raheem Morris did not mince words about the team's performance, stating, "(The Broncos) absolutely went out there and beat us with their effort and their physicality." He emphasized that the game was dominated by physicality and effort, areas where the Falcons fell short.

Offensively, the Falcons struggled to find their rhythm, failing to score a touchdown for the second time this year. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has yet to throw a touchdown pass in two consecutive games for the first time in his career as a starter. The team has reached the red zone only four times in two games and scored just once. This inefficiency has put pressure on an offense known for its potential.

Defensively, Atlanta was unable to contain Bo Nix, who delivered an impressive performance with 307 passing yards and four touchdowns. Nix connected with ten different receivers during the game. The loss marks the first time this season that the Falcons have dropped two games in a row and been kept out of the end zone since September 2023.

The Falcons' issues are recurring, affecting both sides of play. Offensively, penalties have hindered red-zone success, forcing them to settle for field goals instead of touchdowns. Despite having one of the best offensive three-and-out rates in the league, they converted only four of thirteen third downs against Denver.

Defensively, Atlanta struggled to pressure Nix consistently. The Broncos gained 400 total yards and were perfect in red-zone efficiency. Injuries among key defensive players weakened their ability to rely on secondary strength.

With a bye week ahead and having won only two of their last five games, players like Kirk Cousins stress finding answers is crucial: "The challenge is in front of us," he said. In postgame discussions, players like Clark Phillips III emphasized collective responsibility for losses while Nate Landman highlighted facing these challenges head-on during their break.

Darnell Mooney's comment stood out: "We have to understand what a reset is." Finding solutions requires not just identifying problems but implementing effective changes in play and strategy.

Despite recent setbacks, Morris maintains confidence in his team: "This one game won't define us," he stated postgame. However, reoccurring issues must be addressed if they hope to make postseason strides. As it stands, even good teams sometimes require resets to overcome persistent challenges and reach their full potential.