Atlanta Falcons trail Cowboys 28-17 at halftime
The Atlanta Falcons trail the Dallas Cowboys 28-17 at halftime after a disappointing showing on defense. Dallas was able to establish the run early and often and it’s been a major concern for Atlanta in the first half.
Behind the league’s top offensive line, the Cowboys rushed for 131 yards and four touchdowns. You didn’t misread that—four touchdowns. Joseph Randle led the way with 10 carries for 92 yards and three scores, and Darren McFadden added five runs for 34 yards and a touchdown.
On a more positive note, the Falcons were able to do a decent job on offense, particularly with their own ground game. Devonta Freeman, who started in place of the injured Tevin Coleman, ran 12 times for 52 yards and two touchdowns. He added four receptions for 52 more yards. This was a great chance for Freeman to showcase his talent, and he’s done just that against the league’s top-ranked run defense.
First half notes:
- Brandon Weeden is 13 of 14 for 164 yards, no touchdowns and one interception
- Weeden has been able to find his receivers underneath
- The Falcons have not only struggled to stop the run, but also the running backs when split out as a receiver
- Freeman has been the MVP for the Falcons
- His 35-yard reception late in the first half helped set up the field goal before the half
In the second half, the Falcons must get better against the run. Put the game in Weeden’s hands, who threw a pick when there was nothing open, and the game will be much closer.
Stay tuned to Blogging Dirty for updates, and follow us on Twitter (@BloggingDirty).