Atlanta Falcons vs Miami Dolphins: The good, the bad, the ugly

Sep 7, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Adrian Clayborn (94) against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

The good

Adrian Clayborn

Adrian Clayborn was on fire for the second straight week, and has been one of the stars on defense this preseason. Clayborn finished the game with two tackles, a sack and a fumble recovery. His high level of play on the field has impressed coach Dan Quinn.

“I certainly liked the style I’m seeing from Clayborn again,” Quinn said. “I think he’s got real unique qualities inside.”

And the trip to Miami wasn’t his only strong showing. In the second preseason game against the Jets, Clayborn racked up two tackles, one for a loss, a sack, a defended pass and a quarterback hit. Lining up alongside Vic Beasley on the right side has proven to be an effective strategy, and will be one that Quinn will hope is productive throughout the regular season.

Beasley, the eighth overall pick of this year’s draft, has impressed every time he’s stepped on the field. He’s yet to register his first sack, but he’s constantly giving offenses plenty to think about, and his presence has made life easier for his fellow pass rushers. Clayborn and Beasley’s performances have helped each other make plays, and this is exciting to see for the Falcons.

Next: The bad