Atlanta Falcons beat by Steelers: Preseason Week 2 Recap

The Atlanta Falcons starters were impressive on both sides of the ball in their Preseason Week 2 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers

Both sides of the ball were impressive while the starters were on the field for the Atlanta Falcons as they went up against the Pittsburgh Steelers — albeit without star quarterback Ben Roethlisberger or running back Le’Veon Bell. It was the last preseason game on the road for the Falcons as they head to the new Mercedes Benz Stadium for their Week 3 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.

Once again the Falcons led for most the game, but the reserves were unable to hold it. The starters however looked poise to run away with this one had they stayed in the game longer.

Starting quarterback Matt Ryan was only in for one series, but was beyond impressive. He was 4-of-6 passing for 57 yards and hit receiver Mohamed Sanu on a couple of those throws for 24 yards. They didn’t look to suffer too much without starting running back Devonta Freeman or receiver Julio Jones.

That drive with the ones went for 91 yards on ten plays and ended with running back Terron Ward going up the middle for a five-yard score.

On defense they were just as impressive. Their new look squad was flying all over the field as head coach Dan Quinn’s vision of a speedy defense is starting to show. Rookie linebacker Duke Riley was seen all over the field and recorded four tackles. First round pick defensive end Takkarist McKinley also made his debut for Atlanta and despite not registering any stats he made his presence known when he delivered a shot on Steelers quarterback Josh Dobbs as he delivered the pass.

Other players of note

Second-year tight end Austin Hooper looks like the real deal. He made two receptions for 24 yards on the day, including one play where he broke a couple of tackles to convert a long third down play.

Reggie Davis keeps showing up in the games for Atlanta. The undrafted kid from Georgia connected on a dime from backup quarterback Matt Simms for 26-yards. He led the team with 74 yards on just three receptions.

Big Hits

Linebacker De’Vondre Campbell delivered a shot to stuff an end around that the Steelers tried early in the second quarter. Just a quick glance at how fast this defense is going to be in 2017.

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Atlanta plays next on Saturday, August 26 at 7:00 p.m. It will be the first NFL game for them in their new impressive home.