NW Atlanta News

The Atlanta Falcons secured a decisive victory against the Carolina Panthers, winning 38-20 at Bank of America Stadium. The game marked the Falcons' first significant win of the season.

In the first quarter, both teams initially struggled to score, with back-to-back three-and-outs. The Panthers were first on the scoreboard when quarterback Andy Dalton connected with wide receiver Diontae Johnson for a 10-yard touchdown pass. However, Atlanta quickly responded with a touchdown from running back Bijan Robinson, tying the game at 7-7 by the end of the quarter.

The second quarter saw turnovers and quick scoring drives. After an initial fumble recovery by Panthers linebacker Trevin Wallace, kicker Eddy Pineiro's field goal gave Carolina a brief lead. The Falcons regained control with Robinson's second touchdown and a successful two-point conversion following a penalty on Panthers cornerback Chau Smith-Wade. A further touchdown pass from Kirk Cousins to Drake London extended Atlanta's lead before Dalton narrowed it again with a pass to Xavier Legette.

After halftime, Atlanta added to their lead with a field goal by Younghoe Koo. Although Pineiro responded for Carolina with another field goal, Koo extended Atlanta's advantage further in the third quarter.

In the final quarter, an interception by Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell led to another touchdown run by Tyler Allgeier. Despite attempts from Carolina to close the gap, they turned over possession on downs and Koo scored another field goal for Atlanta. An interception by Clark Phillips III effectively ended any chance of a comeback for Carolina as he returned it 45 yards before going down strategically to let his team run out the clock.