2016 Atlanta Falcons: 5 Reasons why the Falcons beat the New Orleans Saints

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Sep 26, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) celebrates while leaving the field after defeating the New Orleans Saints 45-32 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Matt Ryan

The veteran signal caller received a lot of criticism coming into this season. After another great performance on Monday, I think it’s time to put most of that to rest. Ryan completed 20 of 30 passes for 24o yards and a pair of touchdowns against New Orleans. He constantly went through his progressions and found the open man and made the right throw.

It has become obvious that Kyle Shanahan has loosened the reigns and allowed Ryan to dictate more of the offense. The Falcons ran more no-huddle again on Monday night, and again, it was very effective. Another key part of Ryan’s game was his scrambling. There were a few occasions where his receivers didn’t get open, and he smartly ran for big first downs.

Matt Ryan is on a mission this year. If the Atlanta defense can ever find its footing, it could be a surprise year for him and his Falcons.

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