2016 Atlanta Falcons: 5 Reasons why the Falcons beat the Panthers

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Oct 2, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) scores a rushing touchdown against Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Shaq Green-Thompson (54) in the first quarter of their game at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Offensive Line

If I were to give an 4-games-into-the-season MVP award it would go to center Alex Mack. Due to his lack of bad snaps and veteran leadership, the Falcons offensive line has turned into a force. Atlanta’s offense has surpassed 500 yards in two of four games so far this season, and they have the line to thank for that.

Against the vaunted front-7 of the Carolina Panthers, the Falcons gained 571 yards of total offense. Matt Ryan was sacked three times, most likely due to the Panthers being pretty good. Aside from that, Ryan had a clean enough pocket to drop the most single-game passing yards in Atlanta Falcons history.

If the Falcons keep up this level of play on the offensive line, they will be in every game this season. Opposite of what many fans thought coming into the year.

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