In a standout performance, the Atlanta Falcons secured a solid 38-20 victory against the Carolina Panthers in Week 6, marking their first win of the season without trailing in the final minute. This win showcased the team’s evolving capabilities, particularly in their ground game.
While facing a struggling Panthers team, the Falcons found success in their rushing attack, a significant improvement compared to their previous game. Last week, they managed just 73 total rushing yards, but against Carolina, running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier combined for an impressive 200 rushing yards.
Quarterback Kirk Cousins, who previously had an incredible 509-yard game with four touchdowns, demonstrated consistency this week with 225 passing yards, one touchdown, and no turnovers.
With the Falcons leading 22-17 at halftime, Offensive Coordinator Zac Robinson approached Cousins to discuss strategies for the second half. Cousins conveyed a straightforward preference: “I like running the football.”
This emphasis on the ground game was clearly heard and implemented by Robinson. The Falcons intensified their rushing attack in the second half, with Allgeier leading the charge. He achieved a season-high 105 rushing yards on 18 carries, while Bijan Robinson contributed 95 yards on 15 carries.
The Falcons’ ground game not only dominated the field but also allowed them to control time of possession, finishing with more total yards than the Panthers in this crucial NFC South matchup.
Looking ahead, the Falcons face a challenging schedule, starting with a home game against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 7, followed by tough contests against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys. With their recent success, Atlanta appears poised to tackle these upcoming challenges head-on, showcasing their ability to win in various ways.