NW Atlanta News

The Atlanta Falcons conducted a scrimmage on Wednesday, providing a comprehensive look at the team before their final preseason game. The first-team offense faced the second-team defense for most of the session, consistent with previous practices. Head coach Raheem Morris referred to the final series as "mamba period," where starters competed directly.

Four players were absent from the scrimmage: safeties DeMarcco Hellams and Dane Cruikshank (both with ankle injuries), and inside linebackers Nate Landman (quad) and Kaden Elliss (groin).

Observations from the scrimmage indicated that the offense performed better in the first half, while the defense gained an edge in the second half. According to Cousins, a successful 2-point conversion to running back Bijan Robinson during "mamba period" secured an offensive victory.

Penalties were frequent, with eight flags thrown: three on offense, four on defense, and one on special teams. Notable attendees included Falcons owner Arthur Blank and former NFL quarterback Alex Smith.

Offensively, Cousins completed 16 of 22 passes with one touchdown and one interception. Michael Penix Jr. completed 21 of his 28 pass attempts without scoring or turning over the ball. Robinson led rushing efforts with 15 carries and a touchdown.

Defensively, JD Bertrand filled in for injured linebackers alongside Troy Andersen. Bertrand's performance was steady but unremarkable; Andersen forced a fumble that was recovered by wide receiver Casey Washington. The defensive line effectively pressured quarterbacks, with Arnold Ebiketie recording three sacks on Cousins.

Special teams saw kicker Younghoe Koo make all five field-goal attempts from distances estimated at least 45 yards out. Various returner combinations were tested under new kickoff rules.

The Falcons will host the Jacksonville Jaguars for their final preseason game on Friday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Following this game, roster cuts will reduce the team from 90 to 53 players by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET.

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