3 Things the Atlanta Falcons learned in unfair loss to Tampa

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Oct 9, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge (12) is congratulated by Atlanta Falcons quarterback Marcus Mariota (1) and teammates after he scored a two-point conversion against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Marcus Mariota continues to be a roller coaster

Marcus Mariota struggled in the first half and wasn’t helped by drops from his receivers. Mariota’s play over the last two weeks as a whole is concerning and has been bad enough to start many Atlanta Falcons fans asking for Desmond Ridder to be put in the starting lineup. While there haven’t been any whispers of a quarterback change it would be shocking to see the team not give Ridder a chance at some point this season.

However, just as Mariota deserves blame for the first half and his turnovers he deserves credit for helping fuel the Atlanta comeback. Finding Drake London and Olamide on big throws and getting out of the pocket and making plays with his legs Mariota helped the Falcons cut the Tampa lead to six including a clutch two-point conversion throw.

Watching Mariota is a roller coaster and this game perfectly illustrated that fact. Just as he deserves blame for his consistent turnovers and overthrows Atlanta fans have to give Mariota credit for making late plays and earning the team what should have been a chance to finally beat Tom Brady.

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