Atlanta Falcons: Five things we learned in win over Panthers

2) Matt Ryan was outstanding

Dec 27, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) looks to throw the ball against the Carolina Panthers in the second quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Matt Ryan hasn’t been his normal self in 2015 but his last two games have been as good as they get. 23 of 30 for 306 and one touchdown was the line for Ryan but it was toughness that had everyone talking after the game.

Ryan converted a clutch third down with his legs on the Falcons’ first possession of the game and instead of sliding lowered his shoulder and took a shot near the goal line. Ryan was seen holding his side throughout much of the game but wasn’t going to let that stand in his way.

Ryan eclipsed the 300-yard mark for the first time in six games and averaged a season-high 10.20 yard per throw. Ryan also posted a season-high 119.6 quarterback rating which was his highest since week 3 of  2014.