Atlanta Falcons’ Losing Streak Ends with Win over Las Vegas Raiders
The Atlanta Falcons’ losing streak has finally come to an end, as they picked up a much-needed win over the Las Vegas Raiders, 15-9, on Monday night. The Falcons move to 7-7 on the year, which is massive considering the tight NFC South race at the moment. The Raiders continue to fall at 2-12.
It wasn’t the prettiest of wins, but at this point in the season, with three games remaining after this one, a victory is a victory. The Falcons’ offense didn’t see the breakout performance it might have wanted, but at least quarterback Kirk Cousins threw his first touchdown for the first time in five games.
Quarterback Drake London hauled in a 30-yard pass to get the Falcons on the board, snapping a streak where Cousins had eight interceptions to zero touchdowns thrown. However, it was the only time the Falcons were able to find the end zone, as many drives stalled in Raiders territory leading to field goal attempts from Younghoe Koo.
The Falcons’ defense, on the other hand, was having their way with Raiders quarterback Desmond Ridder, who was making the start against his former team in place of the injured Aidan O’Connell. The Falcons were able to stop the run game and sacked Ridder three times, while also making Alexander Mattison fumble.
In the end, the game came down to the final play, with Ridder’s hands as the Las Vegas had the ball down six needing a touchdown and extra point to win it. The game ultimately went in favor of the Falcons, with safety Jessie Bates III being the recipient of the final Hail Mary attempt to secure the victory.
For the Falcons, quarterback Kirk Cousins was 11-for-17 with 112 yards, tossing an interception to go along with his touchdown. Running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier led the ground game, with Robinson carrying it 22 times for 125 yards and Allgeier adding 43 yards on 12 carries.
