2010 Atlanta Falcons season

2010 Atlanta Falcons season
Owner	Arthur Blank
General manager	Thomas Dimitroff
Head coach	Mike Smith
Home field	Georgia Dome
Results
Record	13–3
Division place	1st NFC South
Playoff finish	Lost Divisional Playoffs (vs. Packers) 21–48
Pro Bowlers	QB Matt Ryan WR Roddy White RB Michael Turner TE Tony Gonzalez FB Ovie Mughelli DE John Abraham WR/RS Eric Weems CB Brent Grimes T Tyson Clabo
Uniform

The 2010 season was the Atlanta Falcons' 45th in the National Football League (NFL), their ninteenith playing their home games at Georgia Dome and their third under head coach Mike Smith.

The Falcons improved on their 2009 record, winning 13 games. The team won their first NFC South title since 2004, a bye in the first round of the playoffs, and the top seed in the NFC. In the playoffs, the Falcons fell to the eventual Super Bowl XLV champion Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Round 21–48.

Offseason

Falcons re-signed WR Brian Finneran to a 1-year deal on February 11, 2010.

Falcons re-signed CB Brian Williams to a 1-year deal on March 4, 2010.

Falcons signed CB Dunta Robinson to a 6-year deal on March 5, 2010.

Falcons re-signed LS Joe Zelenka to a deal on March 8, 2010.

Falcons re-signed CB Brent Grimes to a deal on March 9, 2010.

Falcons cut CB Tye Hill and signed S Matt Giordano on March 16, 2010.

2010 NFL Draft

Main article: 2010 NFL draft

After finishing the season 9–7 and out of the playoffs, the Falcons will pick 19th in the draft. The Falcons traded their second round pick to the Kansas City Chiefs after trading for tight end Tony Gonzalez, and their seventh round pick to the St. Louis Rams for cornerback Tye Hill.

2010 Atlanta Falcons draft
Round	Pick	Player	Position	College	Notes
1	19	Sean Weatherspoon	OLB	Missouri
3	83	Corey Peters	DT	Kentucky
3	98	Mike Johnson	OT	Alabama	Compensatory pick
4	117	Joe Hawley	C	UNLV
5	135	Dominique Franks	CB	Oklahoma	from Washington via St. Louis
5	165	Kerry Meier	WR	Kansas	Compensatory pick
6	171	Shann Schillinger	S	Montana	from Detroit
Made roster

Staff

Atlanta Falcons 2010 staff
Front office Owner/CEO – Arthur Blank President – Rich McKay general manager – Thomas Dimitroff Director of football administration – Nick Polk Director of player personnel – Les Snead Assistant director of player personnel – Lionel Vital Director of college scouting – David Caldwell Head coaches Head coach – Mike Smith Assistant head coach/quarterbacks – Bill Musgrave Assistant to the head coach – Andrew Weidinger Offensive coaches Offensive coordinator – Mike Mularkey Running backs – Gerald Brown Wide receivers – Terry Robiskie Tight ends – Chris Scelfo Offensive line – Paul T. Boudreau Assistant offensive line – Paul Dunn Offensive assistant – Glenn Thomas			Defensive coaches Defensive coordinator – Brian VanGorder Defensive line – Ray Hamilton Linebackers – Glenn Pires Defensive backs – Alvin Reynolds Secondary – Tim Lewis Defensive assistant – Mark Collins Special teams coaches Special teams coordinator – Keith Armstrong Assistant special teams – Eric Sutulovich Strength and conditioning Director of athletic performance – Jeff Fish Assistant strength and conditioning – Bill Hughan Strength and conditioning assistant – Jonas Beauchemin

Final roster

2010 Atlanta Falcons roster

Quarterbacks (QB)  8 Chris Redman  2 Matt Ryan  4 John Parker Wilson Running backs (RB) 27 Gartrell Johnson 34 Ovie Mughelli FB 35 Antone Smith 44 Jason Snelling 33 Michael Turner Wide receivers (WR) 83 Harry Douglas 86 Brian Finneran 12 Michael Jenkins 14 Eric Weems RS 84 Roddy White Tight ends (TE) 88 Tony Gonzalez 81 Michael Palmer 87 Justin Peelle

Offensive linemen (OL) 72 Sam Baker T 63 Justin Blalock G 77 Tyson Clabo T 73 Harvey Dahl G 61 Joe Hawley C/G 79 Mike Johnson G 62 Todd McClure C 75 Garrett Reynolds T 74 Will Svitek T Defensive linemen (DL) 55 John Abraham DE 98 Jamaal Anderson DE 95 Jonathan Babineaux DT 71 Kroy Biermann DE 92 Chauncey Davis DE 94 Peria Jerry DT 97 Trey Lewis DT 91 Corey Peters DT 90 Lawrence Sidbury DE 99 Vance Walker DT

Linebackers (LB) 59 Spencer Adkins OLB 50 Curtis Lofton MLB 54 Stephen Nicholas OLB 53 Mike Peterson OLB 56 Sean Weatherspoon MLB 52 Coy Wire MLB Defensive backs (DB) 36 Rafael Bush FS 26 Erik Coleman SS 28 Thomas DeCoud FS 24 Dominique Franks CB 20 Brent Grimes CB 25 William Moore SS 21 Chris Owens CB 23 Dunta Robinson CB 29 Brian Williams CB Special teams  3 Matt Bryant K  9 Michael Koenen P 82 Joe Zelenka LS

Practice squad 48 Robbie Agnone TE (IR) 85 Marquez Branson TE 67 Rob Bruggeman C 16 Tim Buckley WR 17 Brandyn Harvey WR 51 Robert James LB 96 Emmanuel Stephens DE 15 Andy Strickland WR 65 Jose Valdez T Reserve 93 Thomas Johnson DT (IR) 80 Kerry Meier WR (IR) 32 Jerious Norwood RB (IR) 39 Shann Schillinger FS (IR) Rookies in italics 53 active, 5 reserve, 8 practice squad

Schedule

Preseason

The Falcons preseason schedule was announced on March 31, 2010.

Week	Date	Opponent	Result	Record	Venue	Recap
1	August 13	Kansas City Chiefs	W 20–10	1–0	Georgia Dome	Recap
2	August 19	New England Patriots	L 10–28	1–1	Georgia Dome	Recap
3	August 27	at Miami Dolphins	W 16–6	2–1	Sun Life Stadium	Recap
4	September 2	at Jacksonville Jaguars	L 9–13	2–2	EverBank Field	Recap

Regular season

Week	Date	Opponent	Result	Record	Venue	Recap
1	September 12	at Pittsburgh Steelers	L 9–15 (OT)	0–1	Heinz Field	Recap
2	September 19	Arizona Cardinals	W 41–7	1–1	Georgia Dome	Recap
3	September 26	at New Orleans Saints	W 27–24 (OT)	2–1	Louisiana Superdome	Recap
4	October 3	San Francisco 49ers	W 16–14	3–1	Georgia Dome	Recap
5	October 10	at Cleveland Browns	W 20–10	4–1	Cleveland Browns Stadium	Recap
6	October 17	at Philadelphia Eagles	L 17–31	4–2	Lincoln Financial Field	Recap
7	October 24	Cincinnati Bengals	W 39–32	5–2	Georgia Dome	Recap
8	Bye
9	November 7	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	W 27–21	6–2	Georgia Dome	Recap
10	November 11	Baltimore Ravens	W 26–21	7–2	Georgia Dome	Recap
11	November 21	at St. Louis Rams	W 34–17	8–2	Edward Jones Dome	Recap
12	November 28	Green Bay Packers	W 20–17	9–2	Georgia Dome	Recap
13	December 5	at Tampa Bay Buccaneers	W 28–24	10–2	Raymond James Stadium	Recap
14	December 12	at Carolina Panthers	W 31–10	11–2	Bank of America Stadium	Recap
15	December 19	at Seattle Seahawks	W 34–18	12–2	Qwest Field	Recap
16	December 27	New Orleans Saints	L 14–17	12–3	Georgia Dome	Recap
17	January 2	Carolina Panthers	W 31–10	13–3	Georgia Dome	Recap

Standings

NFC South
	W	L	T	PCT	DIV	CONF	PF	PA	STK
(1) Atlanta Falcons	13	3	0	.813	5–1	10–2	414	288	W1
(5) New Orleans Saints	11	5	0	.688	4–2	9–3	384	307	L1
Tampa Bay Buccaneers	10	6	0	.625	3–3	8–4	343	318	W2
Carolina Panthers	2	14	0	.125	0–6	2–10	196	408	L2

Regular season results

Week 1: at Pittsburgh Steelers

Week 1: Atlanta Falcons at Pittsburgh Steelers – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	OT	Total
Falcons	0	3	3	3	0	9
Steelers	3	0	3	3	6	15

at Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Date: September 12
• Game time: 1:00 p.m. EDT
• Game weather: 65 °F (18 °C) (Cloudy)
• Game attendance: 63,609
• Referee: Scott Green
• TV announcers (Fox): Dick Stockton, Charles Davis, Jim Mora, & Laura Okmin
• Recap

Game information

First quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 52-yard field goal, Steelers 3–0, Drive: 11 plays, 42 yards, 7:09. Second quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 49-yard field goal, Tied 3–3, Drive: 4 plays, 24 yards, 0:17. Third quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 39-yard field goal, Falcons 6–3, Drive: 13 plays, 56 yards, 4:20. PIT – Jeff Reed 36-yard field goal, Tied 6–6, Drive: 6 plays, 62 yards, 3:47. Fourth quarter PIT – Jeff Reed 34-yard field goal, Steelers 9–6, Drive: 10 plays, 67 yards, 5:07. ATL – Matt Bryant 23-yard field goal, Tied 9–9, Drive: 13 plays, 64 yards, 5:30. Overtime PIT – Rashard Mendenhall 50-yard run, Steelers 15–9, Drive: 1 plays, 50 yards, 0:11. Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan – 27/44, 252 yards, 1 interception PIT – Dennis Dixon – 18/26, 236 yards, 1 interception Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 19 rushes, 42 yards PIT – Rashard Mendenhall – 22 rushes, 120 yards, 1 touchdown Top receivers ATL – Roddy White – 13 receptions, 111 yards PIT – Hines Ward – 6 receptions, 108 yards Top tacklers ATL – Curtis Lofton – 9 tackles, 3 assists, 1 sack PIT – Bryant McFadden – 12 tackles, 2 assists

The Falcons began their season at Heinz Field for an interconference duel against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers were without quarterback Ben Roethlisberger who was suspended for the first four games of the season. Dennis Dixon started in his place. The Steelers received the opening kick and drove 42 yards in 11 plays with Dixon going 4/4 for 21 yards on the drive, that led to Steelers kicker Jeff Reed nailing a 52-yard field goal, the longest field goal in Heinz Field history. The Falcons offense was non-existent almost entirely in the first half, going three-and- out on their first two drives. In the second quarter, following the Falcons second punt, the Steelers drove 28 yards to the Falcons 35, but Dixon was intercepted by Falcons linebacker Mike Petersen. The Falcons drove 44 yards to the Steelers 28, but Matt Bryant missed a 46-yard field goal. Jeff Reed then missed a 55-yarder. The Falcons drove 24 yards to the Steelers 31-yard line, and Bryant was successful from 48 yards out as the game went to halftime tied at 3-3.

Atlanta drove 55 yards in 13 plays on the first drive of the 2nd quarter, which took 4:20 off the clock, to take the lead on Bryant's 39-yard field goal. However, Pittsburgh would respond, driving 67 yards on 6 plays, taking 3:47 off the clock, and tying the game with Reed's 34-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Steelers would get the lead again, driving 67 yards on 10 plays taking 5:07 off the clock, on Reed's 34-yard field goal, yet the Falcons would strike back. Ryan engineered a 13-play, 73-yard drive taking 5:30 off the clock, and ending with Bryant's 23-yard field goal, tying the score at 9-9 with 3:28 remaining. After a Pittsburgh punt, Troy Polamalu intercepted Matt Ryan at the Atlanta 30. In a golden opportunity to win the game, Pittsburgh drove 9 yards to the Atlanta 21, but Jeff Reed missed a 40-yard field goal wide ride with 0:43 left. Atlanta drained the clock, sending the game into overtime. Atlanta had possession first in overtime, but punted after 5 plays. It was a bad punt, going only 36 yards to midfield. Pittsburgh delivered the final strike in overtime as running back Rashard Mendenhall got the game-winning 50-yard touchdown run, on Pittsburgh's first play.

With the loss, Atlanta began their season at 0–1.

Week 2: vs. Arizona Cardinals

Week 2: Arizona Cardinals at Atlanta Falcons – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Cardinals	0	7	0	0	7
Falcons	7	17	10	7	41

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: September 19
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EDT
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 66,824
• Referee: Jerome Boger
• TV announcers (Fox): Thom Brennaman, Brian Billick and Charissa Thompson
• Recap

Game information

First quarter ATL – Roddy White 7-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 7–0, Drive: 9 plays, 70 yards, 4:27. Second quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 24-yard field goal, Falcons 10–0, Drive: 6 plays, 37 yards, 3:24. ARI – Tim Hightower 80-yard run (Jay Feely kick), Falcons 10–7, Drive: 1 plays, 80 yards, 0:12. ATL – Jason Snelling 19-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 17–7, Drive: 9 plays, 72 yards, 3:36. ATL – Jason Snelling 1-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 24–7, Drive: 8 plays, 78 yards, 3:58. Third quarter ATL – Brian Finneran 12-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 31–7, Drive: 3 plays, 14 yards, 0:45. ATL – Matt Bryant 35-yard field goal, Falcons 34–7, Drive: 16 plays, 69 yards, 6:37. Fourth quarter ATL – Jason Snelling 7-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 41–7, Drive: 11 plays, 80 yards, 6:41. Top passers ARI – Derek Anderson – 17/31, 161 yards, 2 interceptions ATL – Matt Ryan – 21/32, 225 yards, 3 touchdowns Top rushers ARI – Tim Hightower – 11 rushes, 115 yards, 1 touchdown ATL – Jason Snelling – 24 rushes, 129 yards, 2 touchdowns Top receivers ARI – Larry Fitzgerald – 7 receptions, 83 yards ATL – Roddy White – 7 receptions, 78 yards, 1 touchdown Top tacklers ARI – Paris Lenon – 9 tackles, 2 assists ATL – Sean Weatherspoon – 8 tackles, 1 assist, 1 sack

Hoping to rebound from their loss to the Steelers the Falcons played at home an NFC duel against the Arizona Cardinals. In the first quarter Atlanta took the early lead as QB Matt Ryan completed a 7-yard TD pass to WR Roddy White, followed in the second quarter by kicker Matt Bryant hitting a 24-yard field goal. Arizona would reply with RB Tim Hightower scampering 80 yards for a TD run, but Atlanta increased their lead when Ryan threw a 19-yard TD pass to FB Jason Snelling, followed by Snelling getting a 1-yard TD run. In the third quarter the Falcons continued to dominate the game when Ryan completed a 12-yard touchdown pass to WR Brian Finneran, followed by Bryan nailing a 35-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter Atlanta scored once again with FB Jason Snelling getting a 7-yard TD run.

With the win, Atlanta improved to 1–1.

Week 3: at New Orleans Saints

Week 3: Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	OT	Total
Falcons	7	7	3	7	3	27
Saints	14	0	7	3	0	24

at Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana

• Date: September 26
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EDT
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 70,051
• Referee: Walt Anderson
• TV announcers (Fox): Thom Brennaman, Brian Billick and Charissa Thompson
• Recap

Game information

First quarter NO – Jeremy Shockey 2-yard pass from Drew Brees (Garrett Hartley kick), Saints 7–0, Drive: 3 plays, 6 yards, 1:22. ATL – Tony Gonzalez 13-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Tied 7–7, Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 4:49. NO – Lance Moore 80-yard pass from Drew Brees (Garrett Hartley kick), Saints 14–7, Drive: 4 plays, 86 yards, 2:01. Second quarter ATL – Michael Turner 1-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Tied 14–14, Drive: 19 plays, 72 yards, 10:39. Third quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 23-yard field goal, Falcons 17–14, Drive: 11 plays, 63 yards, 5:04. NO – Lance Moore 16-yard pass from Drew Brees (Garrett Hartley kick), Saints 21–17, Drive: 5 plays, 42 yards, 2:28. Fourth quarter ATL – Roddy White 22-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 24–21, Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 5:44. NO – Garrett Hartley 32-yard field goal, Tied 24–24, Drive: 11 plays, 48 yards, 3:28. Overtime ATL – Matt Bryant 46-yard field goal, Falcons 27–24, Drive: 12 plays, 52 yards, 7:02. Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan – 19/30, 228 yards, 2 touchdowns NO – Drew Brees – 30/38, 365 yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 interceptions Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 30 rushes, 114 yards, 1 touchdown NO – Pierre Thomas – 9 rushes, 30 yards Top receivers ATL – Tony Gonzalez – 8 receptions, 110 yards, 1 touchdown NO – Lance Moore – 6 receptions, 149 yards, 2 touchdowns Top tacklers ATL – Curtis Lofton – 6 tackles, 2 assists NO – Jonathan Vilma – 8 tackles, 3 assists

Coming off their win over the Cardinals the Falcons traveled to Louisiana Superdome for an NFC South rivalry match against the New Orleans Saints. The Falcons trailed early when QB Drew Brees made a 2-yard TD pass to TE Jeremy Shockey. The Falcons replied with QB Matt Ryan making a 13-yard TD pass to TE Tony Gonzalez. The Saints re-took the lead with Brees finding WR Lance Moore on an 80-yard TD pass. But the Falcons replied in the second quarter driving 72 yards in 19 plays, taking 10:39 off the clock ending with RB Michael Turner plunging into the end zone on a 1-yard TD run. The Falcons took the lead when kicker Matt Bryant booted a 23-yard field goal. But they fell behind with Brees finding Moore again on a 16-yard TD pass. The Falcons we're able to retake the lead when Ryan rifled a 22-yard TD pass to WR Roddy White. However, Drew Brees drove the Saints into field goal range and they would tie the game with kicker Garrett Hartley making a 32-yard field goal. In overtime, the Saints drove down to the goal line but kicker Hartley missed a 29-yard, chip shot field goal. Matt Ryan drove the Falcons back down the other direction and Matt Bryant hit a 46-yard field goal to give the Falcons the win.

With the win, not only the Falcons improved to 2–1 but finally won their first game in New Orleans since 2002.

Week 4: vs. San Francisco 49ers

Week 4: San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
49ers	14	0	0	0	14
Falcons	0	10	3	3	16

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: October 3
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EDT
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 66,874
• Referee: Tony Corrente
• TV announcers (Fox): Dick Stockton, Charles Davis, Jim Mora & Laura Okmin
• Recap

Game information

First quarter SF – Vernon Davis 12-yard pass from Alex Smith (Joe Nedney kick), 49ers 7–0, Drive: 10 plays, 88 yards, 6:16. SF – Taylor Mays blocked punt recovery in end zone (Joe Nedney kick), 49ers 14–0. Second quarter ATL – Harry Douglas 8-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), 49ers 14–7, Drive: 12 plays, 71 yards, 6:17. ATL – Matt Bryant 37-yard field goal, 49ers 14–10, Drive: 11 plays, 49 yards, 1:13. Third quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 31-yard field goal, 49ers 14–13, Drive: 7 plays, 41 yards, 3:27. Fourth quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 43-yard field goal, Falcons 16–14, Drive: 12 plays, 68 yards, 1:20. Top passers SF – Alex Smith – 21/32, 188 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions ATL – Matt Ryan – 26/43, 273 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions Top rushers SF – Frank Gore – 21 rushes, 77 yards ATL – Michael Turner – 16 rushes, 50 yards Top receivers SF – Frank Gore – 7 receptions, 60 yards ATL – Roddy White – 7 receptions, 104 yards Top tacklers SF – Taylor Mays – 9 tackles, 2 assists ATL – Stephen Nicholas – 12 tackles, 1 assist

Hoping to increase their winning streak after a win against the Saints, the Falcons played inside their dome for an NFC duel against the San Francisco 49ers. In the first quarter the Falcons trailed early with QB Alex Smith making a 12-yard TD pass to TE Vernon Davis. The Falcons problems continued when Michael Koenen's punt was blocked and recovered in their own endzone by DB Taylor Mays, putting the 49ers up 14–0. Then the Falcons replied with QB Matt Ryan completing an 8-yard TD pass to WR Harry Douglas. Then the Falcons took the lead with three field goals from kicker Matt Bryant. He made a 37-yard field goal near the end of the 2nd quarter and a 31-yard field goad in the 3rd. Under two minutes to play with the Falcons trailing 14–13, Ryan threw an interception to the 49ers' Nate Clements who appeared to be headed to the end zone and clinch the win. However wide receiver Roddy White chased him down and stripped the football which was recovered by Atlanta's Harvey Dahl. Ryan then engineered a drive in the other direction and Bryant kicks a 43-yard field goal with two seconds left giving the Falcons another win.

With the win, Atlanta improved to 3–1.

Week 5: at Cleveland Browns

Week 5: Atlanta Falcons at Cleveland Browns – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Falcons	0	6	7	7	20
Browns	0	7	3	0	10

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

• Date: October 10
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EDT
• Game weather: 71 °F (22 °C) (Sunny)
• Game attendance: 65,290
• Referee: John Parry
• TV announcers (Fox): Chris Myers and Charles Davis
• Recap

Game information

First quarter Second quarter ATL – (14:52) Matt Bryant 24-yard field goal, Falcons 3–0, Drive: 12 plays, 66 yards, 4:21. CLE – (12:25) Peyton Hillis 19-yard pass from Seneca Wallace (Phil Dawson kick), Browns 7–3, Drive: 5 plays, 56 yards, 2:30. ATL – (5:04) Matt Bryant 30-yard field goal, Browns 7–6, Drive: 14 plays, 70 yards, 7:19. Third quarter CLE – (10:00) Phil Dawson 19-yard field goal, Browns 10–6, Drive: 6 plays, 22 yards, 3:07. ATL – (8:05) Roddy White 45-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 13–10, Drive: 4 plays, 68 yards, 2:00. Fourth quarter ATL – (4:14) Kroy Biermann 31-yard interception return (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 20–10. Top passers ATL -Matt Ryan – 16/28, 187 yards, 1 touchdown CLE – Seneca Wallace – 11/15, 139 yards, 1 touchdown Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 19 rushes, 140 yards CLE – Peyton Hillis – 10 rushes, 28 yards Top receivers ATL – Roddy White – 5 receptions, 101 yards, 1 touchdown CLE – Mohamed Massaquoi – 5 receptions, 55 yards Top tacklers ATL – Dunta Robinson – 6 tackles CLE – Matt Roth – 6 tackles, 2 assists

Coming off their win over the 49ers the Falcons flew to Cleveland Browns Stadium for an Interconference duel against the Cleveland BrownsAfter a scoreless 1st quarter, the Falcons got things started in the 2nd quarter. Matt Bryant converted a 24-yard field goal. The Browns replied and took the lead with QB Seneca Wallace's 19-yard TD pass to RB Peyton Hillis. The Falcons tried to cut the lead when Bryant made a 30-yard field goal, but was expanded again in the 3rd quarter with kicker Phil Dawson hitting a 19-yard field goal. After that, the Falcons scored when QB Matt Ryan connected with WR Roddy White on a 45-yard TD pass. The game was a defensive drag out the rest of the way. In the 4th quarter DE Kroy Biermann returned an interception 41 yards to the endzone for a touchdown, sealing the Falcons' 4th straight win.

With the win, Atlanta improved to 4–1.

Week 6: at Philadelphia Eagles

Week 6: Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Falcons	0	7	3	7	17
Eagles	14	7	7	3	31

at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Date: October 17
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EDT
• Game weather: 66 °F (19 °C), sunny
• Game attendance: 69,144
• Referee: Walt Coleman
• TV announcers (Fox): Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston and Tony Siragusa
• Recap

Game information

First quarter PHI – DeSean Jackson 31-yard run (David Akers kick), Eagles 7–0, Drive: 2 plays, 53 yards, 0:50. PHI – DeSean Jackson 34-yard pass from Kevin Kolb (David Akers kick), Eagles 14–0, Drive: 6 plays, 69 yards, 2:28. Second quarter PHI – Jeremy Maclin 8-yard pass from Kevin Kolb (David Akers kick), Eagles 21–0, Drive: 7 plays, 34 yards, 2:59. ATL – Tony Gonzalez 1-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Eagles 21–7, Drive: 4 plays, 31 yards, 0:38. Third quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 26-yard field goal, Eagles 21–10, Drive: 14 plays, 65 yards, 6:26. PHI – Jeremy Maclin 83-yard pass from Kevin Kolb (David Akers kick), Eagles 28–10, Drive: 2 plays, 80 yards, 0:48. Fourth quarter ATL – Tony Gonzalez 13-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Eagles 28–17, Drive: 7 plays, 73 yards, 1:41. PHI – David Akers 30-yard field goal, Eagles 31–17, Drive: 7 plays, 32 yards, 2:39. Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan – 23/42, 250 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception PHI – Kevin Kolb – 23/29, 326 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 15 rushes, 45 yards PHI – LeSean McCoy – 21 rushes, 64 yards Top receivers ATL – Michael Jenkins – 5 receptions, 99 yards PHI – Jeremy Maclin – 7 receptions, 159 yards, 2 touchdowns Top tacklers ATL – Curtis Lofton – 11 tackles, 3 assists PHI – Stewart Bradley – 5 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble

Hoping to increase their winning streak the Falcons flew to Lincoln Financial Field for an NFC duel against the Philadelphia Eagles. In the first quarter the Falcons trailed early as WR DeSean Jackson raced through the defense on a 31-yard TD run. Later, QB Kevin Kolb connected with him on a 34-yard TD pass. The Falcons' secondary continued to struggle when Kolb found WR Jeremy Maclin on an 8-yard TD pass. Facing, a 21-0 deficit, the Falcons replied with QB Matt Ryan hitting TE Tony Gonzalez on a 1-yard TD pass. This was followed in the third quarter by kicker Matt Bryant hitting a 26-yard field goal. However, the Falcons fell further behind when Kolb found Maclin again on an amazing 83-yard TD pass. The Falcons replied with Ryan hitting Gonzalez, again, on a 13-yard TD pass. The Eagles pulled away with All-Pro kicker David Akers making a 30-yard field goal.

With the loss, Atlanta fell to 4–2.

Week 7: vs. Cincinnati Bengals

Week 7: Cincinnati Bengals at Atlanta Falcons – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Bengals	3	0	22	7	32
Falcons	7	17	0	15	39

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: October 24
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EDT
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 67,665
• Referee: Alberto Riveron
• TV announcers (CBS): Gus Johnson and Steve Tasker
• Recap

Game information

First quarter ATL – Brian Finneran 3-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 7–0, Drive: 8 plays, 83 yards, 4:50. CIN – Mike Nugent 20-yard field goal, Falcons 7–3, Drive: 9 plays, 58 yards, 4:24. Second quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 45-yard field goal, Falcons 10–3, Drive: 7 plays, 54 yards, 1:52. ATL – Roddy White 11-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 17–3, Drive: 5 plays, 79 yards, 1:52. ATL – Michael Turner 2-yard run (Matt Bryant kick) Falcons 24–3, Drive: 11 plays, 83 yards, 5:31. Third quarter CIN – Mike Nugent 33-yard field goal, Falcons 24–6, Drive: 11 plays, 59 yards, 5:26. CIN – Terrell Owens 19-yard pass from Carson Palmer (Mike Nugent kick), Falcons 24–13, Drive: 6 plays, 88 yards, 3:18. CIN – Jordan Shipley 64-yard pass from Carson Palmer (pass failed), Falcons 24–19, Drive: 3 plays, 62 yards, 1:19. CIN – Adam Jones 59-yard fumble return (pass failed), Bengals 25–24. Fourth quarter ATL – Roddy White 11-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Ryan – Roddy White pass), Falcons 32–25, Drive: 8 plays, 74 yards, 3:14. ATL – Michael Turner 3-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 39–25, Drive: 10 plays, 48 yards, 5:04. CIN – Chad Ochocinco 8-yard pass from Carson Palmer (Mike Nugent kick), Falcons 39–32, Drive: 11 plays, 86 yards, 3:00. Top passers CIN – Carson Palmer – 36/50, 412 yards, 3 touchdowns ATL – Matt Ryan – 24/33, 299 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interceptions Top rushers CIN – Cedric Benson – 20 rushes, 70 yards ATL – Michael Turner – 23 rushes, 121 yards, 2 touchdowns Top receivers CIN – Jordan Shipley – 6 receptions, 131 yards, 1 touchdowns ATL – Roddy White – 11 receptions, 201 yards, 2 touchdowns Top tacklers CIN – Dhani Jones – 7 tackles, 1 assist ATL – Chris Owens – 10 tackles, 1 assist

Hoping to rebound from their loss to the Eagles the Falcons played inside their dome for an inter-conference duel against the Bengals. In the first quarter the Falcons took the lead as QB Matt Ryan connected on a 3-yard TD pass to unheralded WR Brian Finneran. But the Bengals replied with kicker Mike Nugent making a 20-yard field goal. The Falcons dominated the second quarter, going on a 17-0 run. Kicker Matt Bryant hitting a 45-yard field goal. Then Ryan found deep threat WR Roddy White, who would eventually lead the NFL with 115 receptions, on a 43-yard TD pass, followed by eventual rushing yards leader, RB Michael Turner popping into the end zone on a 2-yard TD run. The Bengals rally in the third quarter going on a 22-0 run of their own. Nugent nailed a 33-yard field goal, followed by QB Carson Palmer completing a 19-yard TD pass to WR Terrell Owens. Then Palmer found WR Jordan Shipley on a laser 64-yard TD pass. (With a failed 2-point conversion) Then DB Adam Jones returned a fumble 59 yards to the endzone for a touchdown (With a failed two-point conversion). The Falcons pulled away in the fourth quarter with Ryan throwing an 11-yard TD pass to White. (With the 2-point conversion successful as Ryan passed to White) This was followed by Turner plunging into the end zone on a 3-yard TD run. The Falcons would concede only one touchdown after that as Palmer found WR Chad Ochocinco on an 8-yard TD pass.

With the win, Atlanta went into its bye week at 5–2.

Week 9: vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Week 9: Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Buccaneers	0	14	7	0	21
Falcons	7	10	10	0	27

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: November 7
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EST
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 67,266
• Referee: Terry McAulay
• TV announcers (Fox): Thom Brennaman, Brian Billick, & Chris Myers
• Recap

Game information

First quarter ATL – Michael Turner 2-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 7–0, Drive: 13 plays, 61 yards, 6:54. Second quarter ATL – Michael Turner 10-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 14–0, Drive: 10 plays, 99 yards, 3:59. TB – Arrelious Benn 14-yard pass from Josh Freeman (Connor Barth kick), Falcons 14–7, Drive: 4 plays, 32 yards, 1:29. ATL – Matt Bryant 31-yard field goal, Falcons 17–7, Drive: 11 plays, 72 yards, 6:43. TB – Mike Williams 58-yard pass from Josh Freeman (Connor Barth kick), Falcons 17–14, Drive: 7 plays, 90 yards, 3:21. Third quarter ATL – Michael Palmer 5-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 24–14, Drive: 7 plays, 30 yards, 3:03. ATL – Matt Bryant 41-yard field goal, Falcons 27–14, Drive: 11 plays, 59 yards, 5:54. TB – Micheal Spurlock 89-yard kickoff return (Connor Barth kick), Falcons 27–21, Drive: 0 plays, 0 yards, 0:16. Fourth quarter No scoring plays Top passers TB – Josh Freeman – 11/22, 189 yards, 2 touchdowns, 2 interceptions ATL – Matt Ryan – 24/36, 235 yards, 1 touchdown Top rushers TB – LeGarrette Blount – 13 rushes, 46 yards ATL – Michael Turner – 24 rushes, 107 yards, 2 touchdowns Top receivers TB – Mike Williams – 4 receptions, 89 yards, 1 touchdown ATL – Tony Gonzalez – 8 receptions, 72 yards Top tacklers TB – Quincy Black – 7 tackles, 1 assist ATL – Stephen Nicholas – 7 tackles, 1 assist

Coming off their bye week the Falcons returned inside their dome for an NFC South rivalry match against the Buccaneers. The Falcons took the lead as RB Michael Turner got a 2 and a 10-yard TD run. The Buccaneers replied with QB Josh Freeman completing a 14-yard TD pass to WR Arrelious Benn. The Falcons pulled ahead after kicker Matt Bryant got a 31-yard field goal, but the Buccaneers responded after Freeman found WR Mike Williams on a 58-yard TD pass. The Falcons continued to score in the third quarter after QB Matt Ryan threw a 5-yard TD pass to TE Michael Palmer, followed by Bryant hitting a 41-yard field goal. The Buccaneers responded after Micheal Spurlock returned a kickoff 89 yards for a touchdown.

With the win, the Falcons improved to 6–2.

Week 10: vs. Baltimore Ravens

Week 10: Baltimore Ravens at Atlanta Falcons – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Ravens	0	0	7	14	21
Falcons	0	10	3	13	26

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: November 11
• Game time: 8:20 pm. EST
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 68,474
• Referee: Ron Winter
• TV announcers (NFLN): Bob Papa, Matt Millen and Joe Theismann
• Recap

Game information

First quarter Second quarter ATL – Jason Snelling 28-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 7–0, Drive: 14 plays, 91 yards, 6:38. ATL – Matt Bryant 28-yard field goal, Falcons 10–0, Drive: 12 plays, 33 yards, 4:34. Third quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 51-yard field goal, Falcons 13–0, Drive: 4 plays, 6 yards, 0:59. BAL – Anquan Boldin 5-yard pass from Joe Flacco (Billy Cundiff kick), Falcons 13–7, Drive: 10 plays, 65 yards, 6:01. Fourth quarter ATL – Roddy White 4-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 20–7, Drive: 11 plays, 75 yards, 5:15. BAL – Derrick Mason 6-yard pass from Joe Flacco (Billy Cundiff kick), Falcons 20–14, Drive: 11 plays, 75 yards, 5:52. BAL – Todd Heap 9-yard pass from Joe Flacco (Billy Cundiff kick), Ravens 21–20, Drive: 8 plays, 72 yards, 1:52. ATL – Roddy White 33-yard pass from Matt Ryan (pass failed), Falcons 26–21, Drive: 7 plays, 80 yards, 0:45. Top passers BAL – Joe Flacco – 22/34, 215 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception ATL – Matt Ryan – 32/50, 316 yards, 3 touchdowns Top rushers BAL – Ray Rice – 12 rushes, 59 yards ATL – Michael Turner – 17 rushes, 39 yards Top receivers BAL – Todd Heap – 4 receptions, 57 yards, 1 touchdown ATL – Roddy White – 12 receptions, 138 yards, 2 touchdowns Top tacklers BAL – Jarret Johnson, Lardarius Webb – 6 tackles ATL – Curtis Lofton – 8 tackles, 2 assists

Coming off their divisional win over the Buccaneers, the Falcons stayed at home, donned their throwback uniforms, and played their Week 10 interconference duel with the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night. After a scoreless first quarter, Atlanta delivered the opening punch in the second quarter as quarterback Matt Ryan found running back Jason Snelling on a 28-yard touchdown run, followed by a 28-yard field goal from kicker Matt Bryant.

The Falcons added onto their lead in the third quarter as a Brent Grimes interception set up Bryant booted a 51-yard field goal. The Ravens would answer with quarterback Joe Flacco completing a 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Anquan Boldin. Atlanta struck back in the fourth quarter as Ryan found wide receiver Roddy White on a 4-yard touchdown pass. Baltimore took the lead as Flacco completed a 6-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Derrick Mason, followed by a 9-yard touchdown pass to tight end Todd Heap, with 1:05 left. However, a 24-yard completion to Michael Jenkins and Ravens penalties set the Falcons up at the Ravens 33-yard line. Then, Ryan connected with White again on a 33-yard touchdown pass (with a failed two-point conversion) with 20 seconds left in the game, giving the Falcons a 26-21 lead. Flacco attempted a miracle win, but his last pass to T.J. Houshmendazeh was fumbled with 0:02 seconds left.

With the win, the Falcons improved to 7–2.

During halftime, Deion Sanders was inducted into the Falcons Ring of Honor.

Week 11: at St. Louis Rams

Week 11: Atlanta Falcons at St. Louis Rams – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Falcons	3	13	7	11	34
Rams	7	3	7	0	17

at Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis, Missouri

• Date: November 21
• Game time: 4:05 pm. EST
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 53,005
• Referee: Walt Anderson
• TV announcers (Fox): Sam Rosen and Tim Ryan
• Recap

Game information

First quarter STL – Michael Hoomanawanui 25-yard pass from Sam Bradford (Josh Brown kick), Rams 7–0, Drive: 3 plays, 52 yards, 1:12. ATL – Matt Bryant 42-yard field goal, Rams 7–3, Drive: 12 plays, 56 yards, 6:39. Second quarter STL – Josh Brown 53-yard field goal, Rams 10–3, Drive: 10 plays, 58 yards, 3:59. ATL – Brian Finneran 12-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Tied 10–10, Drive: 4 plays, 47 yards, 1:47. ATL – Matt Bryant 29-yard field goal, Falcons 13–10, Drive: 7 plays, 43 yards, 2:45. ATL – Matt Bryant 24-yard field goal, Falcons 16–10, Drive: 11 plays, 62 yards, 4:54. Third quarter STL – Brandon Gibson 13-yard pass from Sam Bradford (Josh Brown kick), Rams 17–16, Drive: 3 plays, 37 yards, 1:24. ATL – Justin Peelle 2-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 23–17, Drive: 8 plays, 58 yards, 4:59. Fourth quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 21-yard field goal, Falcons 26–17, Drive: 14 plays, 73 yards, 7:06. ATL – Michael Turner 39-yard run (Matt Ryan – Roddy White pass), Falcons 34–17, Drive: 3 plays, 45 yards, 0:29. Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan – 26/39, 253 yards, 2 touchdowns STL – Sam Bradford – 27/42, 233 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 28 rushes, 131 yards, 1 touchdown STL – Steven Jackson – 11 rushes, 54 yards Top receivers ATL – Roddy White – 9 receptions, 83 yards STL – Danny Amendonla – 8 receptions, 63 yards Top tacklers ATL – Curtis Lofton – 7 tackles, 1 assist STL – James Laurinaitis – 8 tackles, 3 assists

Hoping to increase their winning streak the Falcons flew to Edward Jones Dome for an NFC duel with the Rams. In the first quarter the Falcons trailed early after QB Sam Bradford completed a 25-yard TD pass to TE Michael Hoomanawanui. The Falcons replied with kicker Matt Bryant hitting a 42-yard field goal. Later, Rams kicker Josh Brown hit a 53-yard field goal; but they took the lead after Matt Ryan completed a 12-yard TD pass to WR Brian Finneran, followed by Bryant converting a 29 and a 24-yard field goal. The lead was narrowed when Bradford threw a 13-yard TD pass to WR Brandon Gibson, but the Falcons. increased their lead as Ryan threw a 2-yard TD pass to TE Justin Peelle. This was followed in the fourth quarter by Bryant nailing a 21-yard field goal, and with RB Michael Turner taking it in for a 39-yard TD run.

With the win, Atlanta improved to 8–2, increasing their NFC South lead.

Week 12: vs. Green Bay Packers

Week Twelve: Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons — Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Packers	3	0	7	7	17
Falcons	3	7	0	10	20

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: November 28
• Game time: 1:00 pm EST/12:00 pm CST
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 68,204
• Referee: Pete Morelli
• TV announcers (FOX): Thom Brennaman, Brian Billick and Laura Okmin
• Recap

Game information

First quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 38 yd. FG (ATL 3–0) GB – Mason Crosby 22 yd. FG (3–3) Second quarter ATL – Tony Gonzalez 4 yd. TD reception from Matt Ryan, M. Bryant XP good (ATL 10–3) Third quarter GB – Aaron Rodgers 1 yd. TD run, M. Crosby XP good (10–10) Fourth quarter ATL – Michael Turner 1 yd. TD run, M. Bryant XP good (ATL 17–10) GB – Jordy Nelson 10 yd. TD reception from Aaron Rodgers, M. Crosby XP good (17–17) ATL – Matt Bryant 47 yd. FG (ATL 20–17) Top passers GB – Aaron Rodgers – 26/35, 344 yds, TD ATL – Matt Ryan – 24/28, 197 yds, TD Top rushers GB – Aaron Rodgers – 12 carries, 51 yards ATL – Michael Turner – 23 carries, 110 yards Top receivers GB – Greg Jennings – 5 receptions, 119 yards ATL – Tony Gonzalez – 6 receptions, 51 yards, TD Top tacklers GB – Charlie Peprah – 7 tackles, 2 assists ATL – Brent Grimes – 6 tackles

The Falcons' eleventh game was an NFC duel with the Packers inside their dome. In the first quarter the Falcons took the lead as kicker Matt Bryant nailed a 38-yard field goal. The Packers replied as kicker Mason Crosby hit a 22-yard field goal. The Falcons had the only score of the second quarter with QB Matt Ryan firing a 4-yard TD pass to TE Tony Gonzalez with 0:08 seconds left in the half. On the play before the drive began, on a 4th-and-Goal at the 1-yard line, Aaron Rodgers fumbled with the Falcons recovering. The Packers responded in the third quarter when QB Aaron Rodgers scrambled 1 yard for a touchdown. Less than a minute into the 4th quarter, the Falcons got the lead back as RB Michael Turner punched it in from 1 yard out. However, the Packers replied with Rodgers' 10-yard TD pass to WR Jordy Nelson on 4th-and-goal with 0:56 left. It was their third 4th down conversion on the drive. On the ensuing kick a 40-yard kickoff return by Eric Weems with a 15-yard facemask penalty set the Falcons up at the Packers 49-yard line. Four short completions set up Bryant's game-winning 47-yard field goal. The Packers called timeout before the kick, however, but, Bryant's second attempt was good with 0:09 seconds left. It was his third game-winning field goal of the season. Greg Jennings' lateral attempt went out of bounds on the next drive, and the game was over.

With the win, Atlanta improved to 9–2.

Week 13: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Week 13: Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Falcons	7	7	0	14	28
Buccaneers	7	7	3	7	24

at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida

• Date: December 5
• Game time: 4:15 pm. EST
• Game weather: 72 °F (22 °C) (Sunny)
• Game attendance: 53,955
• Referee: Tony Corrente
• TV announcers (Fox): Dick Stockton, Charles Davis, Jim Mora & Laura Okmin
• Recap

Game information

First quarter ATL – Michael Turner 5-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 7–0, Drive: 6 plays, 52 yards, 3:16. TB – LeGarrette Blount 6-yard run (Connor Barth kick), Tied 7–7, Drive: 11 plays, 86 yards, 5:58. Second quarter ATL – Ovie Mughelli 17-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 14–7, Drive: 8 plays, 60 yards, 2:34. TB – Mike Williams 1-yard pass from Josh Freeman (Connor Barth kick), Tied 14–14, Drive: 7 plays, 30 yards, 1:24. Third quarter TB – Connor Barth 33-yard field goal, Buccaneers 17–14, Drive: 8 plays, 51 yards, 3:26. Fourth quarter TB – John Gilmore 2-yard pass from Earnest Graham (Connor Barth kick), Buccaneers 24–14, Drive: 4 plays, 39 yards, 2:00. ATL – Eric Weems 102-yard kickoff return (Matt Bryant kick), Buccaneers 24–21, Drive: 0 plays, 0 yards, 0:21. ATL – Michael Jenkins 9-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 28–24, Drive: 10 plays, 67 yards, 3:59. Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan – 18/36, 205 yards, 2 touchdowns, 2 interceptions TB – Josh Freeman – 19/38, 181 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 24 rushes, 88 yards, 1 touchdown TB – LeGarrette Blount – 20 rushes, 103 yards, 1 touchdown Top receivers ATL – Roddy White – 7 receptions, 74 yards TB – Mike Williams – 6 receptions, 68 yards, 1 touchdown Top tacklers ATL – Curtis Lofton – 7 tackles, 2 assists TB – E.J. Biggers, Quincy Black – 7 tackles

Hoping to increase their winning streak the Falcons flew to Raymond James Stadium for an NFC South rivalry match against the Buccaneers. The Falcons took the early lead as RB Michael Turner got a 5-yard TD run. But the Buccaneers replied with RB LeGarrette Blount getting a 6-yard TD run. The Falcons scored again with QB Matt Ryan getting a 17-yard TD pass to FB Ovie Mughelli, but Tampa Bay replied with QB Josh Freeman getting a 1-yard TD pass to WR Mike Williams. The Falcons trailed for the first time in the game with kicker Connor Barth nailing a 33-yard field goal, and with Earnest Graham making a 2-yard TD pass to TE John Gilmore. The Falcons responded with Eric Weems returning a kickoff 102 yards for a touchdown, and getting the lead back with Ryan getting a 9-yard TD pass to WR Michael Jenkins.

With the win, the Falcons improved to 10–2.

Week 14: at Carolina Panthers

Week 14: Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Falcons	14	3	7	7	31
Panthers	0	0	7	3	10

at Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina

• Date: December 12
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EST
• Game weather: 44 °F (7 °C) (Cloudy)
• Game attendance: 71,235
• Referee: Clete Blakeman
• TV announcers (Fox): Ron Pitts and John Lynch
• Recap

Game information

First quarter ATL – Tony Gonzalez 4-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 7–0, Drive: 3 plays, 29 yards, 1:03. ATL – Michael Turner 1-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 14–0, Drive: 8 plays, 73 yards, 4:40. Second quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 39-yard field goal, Falcons 17–0, Drive: 18 plays, 64 yards, 8:48. Third quarter CAR – Mike Goodson 13-yard run (John Kasay kick), Falcons 17–7, Drive: 5 plays, 81 yards, 2:21. ATL – Michael Turner 3-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 24–7, Drive: 5 plays, 49 yards, 1:37. Fourth quarter CAR – John Kasay 36-yard field goal, Falcons 24–10, Drive: 7 plays, 52 yards, 3:01. ATL – Michael Turner 4-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 31–10, Drive: 4 plays, 16 yards, 1:52. Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan – 20/34, 227 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception CAR – Jimmy Clausen – 14/24, 107 yards, 1 interception Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 28 rushes, 112 yards, 3 touchdowns CAR – Jonathan Stewart – 18 rushes, 133 yards Top receivers ATL – Roddy White – 8 receptions, 79 yards CAR – Brandon LaFell – 6 receptions, 38 yards Top tacklers ATL – Thomas DeCoud – 6 tackles, 3 assists CAR – Jon Beason – 8 tackles

The Falcons' thirteenth game was an NFC South rivalry match against the Panthers. The Falcons commanded the first half as QB Matt Ryan completed a 4-yard TD pass to TE Tony Gonzalez, followed by RB Michael Turner getting a 1-yard TD run, and then with kicker Matt Bryant nailing a 39-yard field goal. The Panthers scored in the third quarter with RB Mike Goodson getting a 13-yard TD run, but the Falcons replied as Turner got a 3-yard TD run. The lead was narrowed as kicker John Kasay made a 36-yard field goal, but Atlanta pulled away as Turner got a 4-yard TD run.

With the win, Atlanta improved to 11–2.

Week 15: at Seattle Seahawks

Week 15: Atlanta Falcons at Seattle Seahawks – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Falcons	0	17	17	0	34
Seahawks	7	3	0	8	18

at Qwest Field, Seattle, Washington

• Date: December 19
• Game time: 4:05 pm. EST
• Game weather: 45 °F (7 °C) (Sunny)
• Game attendance: 67,101
• Referee: Walt Coleman
• TV announcers (Fox): Sam Rosen and Tim Ryan
• Recap

Game information

First quarter SEA – Marshawn Lynch 1-yard run (Olindo Mare kick), Seahawks 7–0, Drive: 12 plays, 80 yards, 7:32. Second quarter ATL – Jason Snelling 3-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Tied 7–7, Drive: 15 plays, 51 yards, 8:14. ATL – Matt Bryant 27-yard field goal, Falcons 10–7, Drive: 14 plays, 51 yards, 7:16. SEA – Olindo Mare 38-yard field goal, Tied 10–10, Drive: 4 plays, 7 yards, 1:55. ATL – Michael Jenkins 24-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 17–10, Drive: 13 plays, 80 yards, 1:46. Third quarter ATL – Jonathan Babineaux fumble recovery in end zone (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 24–10. ATL – Matt Bryant 25-yard field goal, Falcons 27–10, Drive: 8 plays, 30 yards, 4:05. ATL – Roddy White 5-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 34–10, Drive: 4 plays, 21 yards, 2:20. Fourth quarter SEA – Charlie Whitehurst 1-yard run (Charlie Whitehurst – Ben Obomanu pass), Falcons 34–18, Drive: 11 plays, 88 yards, 4:40. Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan – 20/35, 174 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception SEA – Charlie Whitehurst – 8/16, 83 yards Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner – 25 rushes, 82 yards SEA – Marshawn Lynch – 12 rushes, 60 yards, 1 touchdown Top receivers ATL – Roddy White – 7 receptions, 65 yards, 1 touchdown SEA – Mike Williams – 8 receptions, 66 yards Top tacklers ATL – Curtis Lofton – 4 tackles, 3 assists SEA – Aaron Curry – 6 tackles, 1 assist

Looking to secure a playoff berth, the Falcons traveled to Seattle in their last regular-season road game to take on the Seahawks. Seattle took an early lead with a 1-yard TD run by Marshawn Lynch. Atlanta would later respond early in the second quarter with a Matt Ryan 3-yard TD pass to Jason Snelling, with Matt Bryant later adding a 27-yard field goal to take the lead. Seattle tied the game with a 38-yard field goal from Olindo Mare; however, the Falcons took the lead again with a Ryan 24-yard TD pass to Michael Jenkins to close the first half. On the Seahawks' first offensive possession of the second half, Matt Hasselbeck fumbled the football in the end-zone with defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux recovering for a Falcons' touchdown. Atlanta would later add to their lead with a 25-yard Bryant field goal as well as a Ryan 24-yard TD pass to Roddy White. Seattle's only score of the second half came from backup quarterback Charlie Whitehurst with a 1-yard TD rush followed by a successful 2-point conversion with a Whitehurst pass to Ben Obomanu.

With the win, Atlanta improved to 12–2. Also, the Falcons secured a playoff berth early in the game due to Philadelphia's victory over the New York Giants.

Week 16: vs. New Orleans Saints

Week 16: New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Saints	3	7	0	7	17
Falcons	0	7	0	7	14

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: December 27
• Game time: 8:30 pm. EST
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Game attendance: 70,144
• Referee: Ed Hochuli
• TV announcers (ESPN): Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Jon Gruden, Michele Tafoya and Suzy Kolber
• Recap

Game information

First quarter NO – Garrett Hartley 52-yard field goal, Saints 3–0, Drive: 8 plays, 37 yards, 4:19. Second quarter NO – Pierre Thomas 2-yard run (Garrett Hartley kick), Saints 10–0, Drive: 5 plays, 34 yards, 2:20. ATL – Roddy White 7-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Saints 10–7, Drive: 8 plays, 78 yards, 3:50. Third quarter No scoring plays Fourth quarter ATL – Chauncey Davis 26-yard interception return (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 14–10. NO – Jimmy Graham 6-yard pass from Drew Brees (Garrett Hartley kick), Saints 17–14, Drive: 13 plays, 90 yards, 7:11. Top passers NO – Drew Brees – 35/49, 302 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions ATL – Matt Ryan – 15/29, 148 yards, 1 touchdown Top rushers NO – Pierre Thomas – 19 rushes, 63 yards, 1 touchdown ATL – Michael Turner – 17 rushes, 48 yards Top receivers NO – Robert Meachem – 10 receptions, 101 yards ATL – Roddy White – 3 receptions, 43 yards, 1 touchdown Top tacklers NO – Jo-Lonn Dunbar – 5 tackles, 1 assist ATL – Curtis Lofton – 6 tackles, 5 assists

Looking to win their division and capture the top seed in the NFC playoffs, the Falcons hosted the Saints in a Monday Night rematch of their Week 3 contest. New Orleans would score first with Garrett Hartley kicking a FG from 52 yards late in the first quarter. RB Pierre Thomas would add to the Saints' lead with a 2-yard TD run; however, Atlanta would respond with a Matt Ryan 7-yard TD pass to Roddy White to cut the lead to three. After a scoreless third quarter, the Falcons took the lead with Chauncey Davis returning an interception 26 yards for a touchdown. New Orleans reclaimed the lead late in the 4th with a Drew Brees 6-yard TD pass to Jimmy Graham. Atlanta attempted to come back; however, New Orleans held on for the win.

With the loss, Atlanta falls to 12–3, snapping their 8-game winning streak.

Week 17: vs. Carolina Panthers

Week 17: Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Panthers	0	0	3	7	10
Falcons	14	7	10	0	31

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: January 2
• Game time: 1:00 pm. EST
• Game weather: None (dome stadium)
• Referee: John Parry
• TV announcers (Fox): Dick Stockton and Charles Davis

Game information
First quarter Second quarter Third quarter Fourth quarter Top passers CAR – ATL – Top rushers CAR – ATL – Top receivers CAR – ATL – Top tacklers CAR – ATL –

The Falcons' sixteenth game was a division rivalry rematch against the Panthers inside their dome. The Falcons commanded the first half as QB Matt Ryan got a 6-yard TD pass to TE Tony Gonzalez. This was followed by a 55-yard punt return for a touchdown by Eric Weems; then with Ryan completing a 14-yard TD pass to WR Roddy White. The Panthers tried to cut the lead with kicker John Kasay getting a 23-yard field goal, but the Falcons continued to score as kicker Matt Bryant made a 47-yard field goal, followed by RB Michael Turner getting a 3-yard TD run. The lead was narrowed as QB Jimmy Clausen connected to TE Jeff King on a 2-yard TD pass, but the Falcons held on for the easy win, finishing their regular season on a 13–3 record. The Falcons swept the Panthers for the 1st time since 2004.

Postseason results

Postseason

Round	Date	Opponent (seed)	Result	Record	Venue	Recap
Divisional	January 15	Green Bay Packers (6)	L 21–48	0–1	Georgia Dome	Recap

NFC Divisional Round: vs. Green Bay Packers

NFC Divisional Round: Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons – Game summary

Quarter	1	2	3	4	Total
Packers	0	28	14	6	48
Falcons	7	7	0	7	21

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

• Date: January 15
• Game time: 8:00 pm. EST
• Game weather: None (Dome Stadium)
• Game attendance: 69,210
• Referee: John Parry
• TV announcers (FOX): Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Pam Oliver & Chris Myers
• Recap, Gamebook

Game information

First quarter ATL – Michael Turner 12-yard run (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 7–0, Drive: 7 plays, 48 yards, 3:55. Second quarter GB – Jordy Nelson 6-yard pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick), Tied 7–7, Drive: 13 plays, 81 yards, 7:56 ATL – Eric Weems 102-yard kickoff return (Matt Bryant kick), Falcons 14–7, Drive: 0 plays, 0 yards, 0:14. GB – John Kuhn 1-yard run (Mason Crosby kick), Tied 14–14, Drive: 10 plays, 92 yards, 5:44. GB – James Jones 20-yard pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick), Packers 21–14, Drive: 7 plays, 80 yards, 1:38 GB – Tramon Williams 70-yard interception return (Mason Crosby kick), Packers 28–14 Third quarter GB – Aaron Rodgers 7-yard run (Mason Crosby kick), Packers 35–14, Drive: 12 plays, 80 yards, 6:32. Fourth quarter GB – John Kuhn 7-yard pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick), Packers 42–14, Drive: 8 plays, 50 yards, 4:48 ATL – Roddy White 6-yard pass from Matt Ryan (Matt Bryant kick), Packers 42–21, Drive: 7 plays, 73 yards, 3:20 GB – Mason Crosby 43-yard field goal, Packers 45–21, Drive: 8 plays, 19 yards, 5:10. Top passers GB – Aaron Rodgers – 31/36, 366 yards, 3 touchdowns ATL – Matt Ryan – 20/29, 186 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions Top rushers GB – James Starks – 25 rushes, 66 yards ATL – Michael Turner – 10 rushes, 39 yards, 1 touchdown Top receivers GB – Greg Jennings – 8 receptions, 101 yards ATL – Michael Jenkins – 6 receptions, 67 yards Top tacklers GB – Charles Woodson – 5 tackles, 1 assist ATL – Brent Grimes – 7 tackles

Entering the postseason as the NFC's #1 seed, the Falcons began their playoff run at home against the #6 Green Bay Packers, in a rematch of their Week 12 match-up. Atlanta delivered the game's opening strike in the first quarter with a 12-yard touchdown run from running back Michael Turner. The Packers answered in the second quarter as quarterback Aaron Rodgers completed a 6-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Jordy Nelson, yet the Falcons immediately struck back as wide receiver Eric Weems returned the ensuing kickoff for a franchise postseason best 102 yards for a touchdown. Green Bay came right back with fullback John Kuhn getting a 1-yard touchdown run, Rodgers completing a 20-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver James Jones, and cornerback Tramon Williams returning an interception 70 yards for a touchdown.

The Packers added onto their lead in the third quarter as Rodgers got a 7-yard touchdown run, followed by his 7-yard touchdown pass to Kuhn. Atlanta tried to rally in the fourth quarter as quarterback Matt Ryan found wide receiver Roddy White on a 6-yard touchdown pass, yet Green Bay closed out their dominating night with Crosby getting a 43-yard field goal.

With the loss, the Falcons' season came to a disappointing end with an overall record of 13–4.

The 27-point loss was the worst loss by a top seed in Divisional Playoff game history. It was the second worst defeat by a top seed before a Super Bowl, with the worst being a 28–0 loss by the Los Angeles Rams to the Dallas Cowboys in the 1978 season.

External links

• 2010 Atlanta Falcons season at ESPN
• 2010 Atlanta Falcons season at Pro Football Reference