Atlanta Falcons report card after Week 13 loss to Buccaneers

The Atlanta Falcons suffered a fifth straight defeat at the hands of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Here’s the Falcons’ report card.

It was another frustrating day for the Atlanta Falcons, who dropped a fifth consecutive game and their sixth in seven games. A late Mike Evans touchdown gave the Buccaneers the win late on, and the Falcons couldn’t respond. Here’s the report card after the tough loss.

Quarterback: C

Matt Ryan put in an improved performance, but points were left on the field. The Falcons struggled to convert in the red zone and were forced to kick too often. Ryan’s interception late in the game sealed the win for the Bucs. It was an improvement, but it was still a below par performance for Matty Ice.

Running backs: C-

Somewhat surprisingly, the Falcons only ran the football 18 times. So much for balance on offense. Devonta Freeman ran hard as he always does, but was unable to break a big one or find the end zone. Tevin Coleman had a couple of nice runs.

Wide receivers: C

Julio Jones was held under 100 yards but made some key plays. Justin Hardy had a solid game with two receptions for 34 yards. Nick Williams scored a touchdown on his only reception, but this was the only score for the receivers.

Tight ends: C

Jacob Tamme remains the only tight end used in the receiving game, but he only made three catches for 26 yards.

Offensive line: C

Dec 6, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers middle linebacker Kwon Alexander (58) and outside linebacker Lavonte David (54) tackle Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay defeated Atlanta 23-19. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The offensive line gave up three sacks on Ryan, and was unable to create enough running lanes against a strong front seven. It was far from the line’s best day.

Defensive line: C-

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Grady Jarrett recorded his first NFL sack, but that was as good as it got for the defensive line. Pass rush was a concern once again, and the line was bullied in the run game, allowing the Bucs to rush for 166 yards.

Linebackers: B

Paul Worrilow led the team in tackles with 10, and he thought he had made the interception that could have won the game for Atlanta, but Desmond Trufant was called for pass interference.

Secondary: B

Desmond Trufant intercepted Jameis Winston, but it was his pass interference call that proved to be costly when Paul Worrilow made what would have surely been a game-clinching interception.

Special teams: A

Shayne Graham has been excellent since arriving, hitting all four of his field goals against the Bucs. His longest was from 51 yards. Matt Bosher was consistent punting as ever.

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