Atlanta Falcons report card after Week 12 loss to Vikings
The Atlanta Falcons were comfortably beaten by the Minnesota Vikings in Week 12. Here’s the report card.
It was another disappointing defeat for the Atlanta Falcons, who were beaten 20-10 at home to the Minnesota Vikings. Turnovers were once again the downfall of the Falcons. Here’s how the report card shapes up.
Quarterback: D
It’s the same old story for Matt Ryan. His stat sheet flatters his performance. Once again, Ryan cost the Falcons points with awful turnovers. His pick in the end zone was incredibly tough to swallow. While Ryan continues to struggle, the Falcons are going nowhere.
Running backs: C
If you take away the fumble, rookie Tevin Coleman had a nice game. He rushed 18 times for 110 yards. But after an impressive 46-yard run, Coleman fumbled the football and cost the Falcons points. Coleman has potential and looked good, but the Falcons need Devonta Freeman back.
Wide receivers: C
Roddy White led the team in receptions with six, which went for 60 yards. Julio Jones was kept in check for the most part. Rookie Justin Hardy made a couple of nice plays, but the only touchdown came from Nick Williams in garbage time.
Tight ends: B
Nov 29, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons tight end Jacob Tamme (83) is hit by Minnesota Vikings strong safety Andrew Sendejo (34) during the first half at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Jacob Tamme led the team in receiving yards with 69. Tamme continues to step up as a reliable option for Matt Ryan, with so much inconsistency from the wide receivers.
Offensive line: B
It was generally a good day for the offensive line. They were strong in the run blocking, and generally protected Matt Ryan well.
MORE: Five things we learned in loss to Vikings
Defensive line: C
The Falcons defensive line didn’t register a single sack all game, despite getting close a few times. Despite giving up 153 rushing yards to Adrian Peterson, the run defense was solid initially, but the defense had too much to do with a poor showing on offense.
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Linebackers: C
Justin Durant left the game with an ankle injury. Sounds all too familiar this season. Philip Wheeler had a nice game and made 11 tackles. Paul Worrilow had eight tackles.
Secondary: B
Desmond Trufant showed us all why he is so good, rookie Jalen Collins not so much. Ricardo Allen made a key interception in the end zone.
Special teams: B+
It was a solid day overall on special teams. Shayne Graham connected on his only field goal attempt and converted a PAT. Matt Bosher did a nice job with his two punts, and Eric Weems did a good job in the return game.