Atlanta Answers

Atlanta proves why they have the best record in the NFC

By Doug Knopf

After a loss to the Panthers and a couple of close wins, the Falcons finally put up big numbers. A statement win at home versus the Giants was exactly what the Falcons needed to regain respect and show that they are possible championship contenders.  A 34-0 score and complete domination in all three phases makes any Atlanta fan very happy.

AP Photo/ John Amis

           

Even though Atlanta was the top seed in the NFC and held the best record, not many people thought the Falcons were going to win this game.

The game started off in Atlanta’s favor with an interception on the second play from scrimmage by Asante Samuel, which led to a quick score by Atlanta. After a missed field goal by Tynes, the Falcons drove down the field for another score before the end of the first quarter. The second quarter was not any better for the Giants as Manning was picked off again. An unexciting quarter for both teams with defense dominating the game. The second half of the game was comprised of multiple failed fourth down attempts by the Giants and a couple of scores by Julio Jones.

           

When it was over, all Tom Coughlin had to say was that “[they] were very, very bad, and Atlanta was very, very good.”

This game had more meaning to both teams than a normal win or loss. The Giants are no longer in first place in their division and do not control their own destiny. The Falcons now are most likely on their way to the #1 seed in the NFC and home field advantage throughout the playoffs. This is important because Matt Ryan is a complete animal at home and Atlanta does not travel well, being a team that plays in a dome. What is more important is that the Falcons have their confidence back and are primed to make a run at the championship. We have seen in the last two playoffs that it is the team with the most momentum going into the playoffs who wins.

The next two weeks will be crazy in the NFL as we gear up for the playoffs.