Atlanta Falcons: Three reasons why they lost to the Buccaneers

Sep 11, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) throws the ball as tackle Demar Dotson (69) blocks Atlanta Falcons linebacker Vic Beasley (44) in the first quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 11, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) passes the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Ryan missed several big-play opportunities at inopportune times

Matt Ryan had a better-than-average game against Tampa Bay, but when it counted the most, he misfired.

His 27 of 39 afternoon that yielded 334 yards passing and two touchdowns was all fine and dandy, but his several pass attempts that sailed behind his receivers, and his poor overall decision-making on third downs sunk the Falcons when they needed him the most.

This performance was a perfect example of why offensive numbers don’t always tell the full story.

He missed some very easy throws, especially late in the game and that held the team back.

Ryan wasn’t the only reason the Falcons’ lost this game, but he’ll be the first to admit that he’s got to play even better if Atlanta want’s to fight their way back after starting off the season 0-1.

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