ATL Standard

Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris commended the entire defense following a decisive 34-7 victory over the New York Giants at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The coach refrained from singling out any individual player or specific play, choosing instead to highlight the collective performance of his team.

Two pivotal pick-sixes by safety Jessie Bates III and outside linebacker Matthew Judon were crucial in securing the win. Despite their significance, neither player nor their actions were specifically acknowledged in post-game comments.

Bates reflected on the collaborative nature of their success, stating, "A lot of people just see me scoring a touchdown... I get the glory for that one, and Judon got one, but it's a good day for our defense."

The Falcons allowed only seven points, marking a season-best defensive effort. They restricted the Giants to 45 rushing yards and 189 passing yards—both significant achievements for Atlanta's defense this season.

New York's quarterback Drew Lock completed 22 of his 39 passes for 210 yards with one touchdown. He was intercepted twice and sacked three times by Judon, inside linebacker Kaden Elliss, and outside linebacker Arnold Ebiketie for a total loss of 21 yards. The Falcons have recorded 16 sacks in their last four games compared to just ten in their first eleven games.

Judon expressed satisfaction with their efforts: "We're working hard... When it pays off, that does feel good."

Bates' interception occurred in the second quarter when Atlanta trailed 7-3. With the Giants at Atlanta's 48-yard line on a second-and-7 play, Lock's pass intended for wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson was intercepted by Bates and returned 55 yards for a touchdown.

"We were in Cover 3; it looks like a man," Bates explained. He credited cornerback Dee Alford's communication skills and the defensive line's pressure on Lock as key factors leading to his interception.

Judon's pick-six happened in the third quarter with Atlanta leading 17-7. On another second-and-7 situation at their own 33-yard line, Lock's pass intended for wide receiver Malik Nabers was tipped by Falcons defensive lineman Zach Harrison before Judon caught it and ran 27 yards into the end zone.

"They ran a screen," Harrison recounted. "I tipped it... I see Judon with the ball, and he scored."

Judon added: "Zach got his hands on the ball... I'm really grateful."

The game highlighted not only individual plays but also emphasized teamwork across all positions on defense.

"When you get in the end zone... sometimes you're a spry chicken," said Judon humorously reflecting on his performance while celebrating Atlanta's victory.