Atlanta Falcons three positive takeaways from loss to Eagles

1. Cordarrelle Patterson

Patterson was arguably the only consistent productive player offensively for Atlanta. Patterson finished the day with 54-rushing yards on only seven attempts and 13-receiving yards with two catches.

While Atlanta lacked a big play anytime Patterson touched the ball you felt as if he were only a move away from heading to the end-zone. Patterson looked like a top draft pick surrounded by marginal college talent.

Not exactly how you want to be describing a Matt Ryan and Calvin Ridley-led offense. Patterson gave Atlanta plenty of reason for optimism he will be a productive 3rd down back who can catch out of the backfield.

Patterson led the team in rushing yards and caught two more passes than starting receiver Russell Gage.

Going forward Patterson will serve as a depth receiver, the second running back, and the Falcons main return man with Avery Williams returning the few punts Atlanta manages to force.

Signing Patterson early on looks like a savvy move for a team that had a very quiet off-season aside from the Julio Jones trade.  Can Patterson maintain his pace of production as a role player or was week one a blip on the radar? A question only time will answer as the Falcons turn their attention to week two.