The Packers held a 12-point lead in the second half on Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, but they couldn’t maintain it and ultimately suffered a 25-24 defeat to the Falcons, dropping their record to 1-1 in the early stages of the season. In contrast, the Falcons improved to 2-0.
Green Bay’s offense struggled in the fourth quarter, failing to secure a single first down on three possessions, while the Packers’ defense had difficulty stopping the Falcons. Atlanta methodically fought its way back into the game, ultimately taking the lead with a short field goal with just 57 seconds remaining.
Running back Bijan Robinson had an impressive performance, accumulating 124 yards on 19 carries, while Tyler Allgeier contributed 48 yards on 16 attempts. Quarterback Desmond Ridder completed 19 of 32 passes for 237 yards, including one touchdown and one interception, with a passer rating of 79.8.
He also added 39 rushing yards on 10 attempts. Wide receiver Drake London led the receiving corps with six catches for 67 yards and a touchdown, while Mack Hollins contributed three catches for 60 yards.
The second quarter burst into action with an 8-yard pass connecting with Musgrave. Initially, A.J. Dillon was marked just one yard short of securing a first down, but the determined Head Coach Matt LaFleur decided to challenge the spot.
His strategic move paid off as the referees adjusted the placement of the ball, granting Green Bay a fresh set of downs at the Atlanta 9-yard line. You may also check Wild Moment Jets Miss Easy Pick-6!
The very next play witnessed a pivotal moment as Jayden Reed etched his name into NFL history with his first-ever touchdown reception on a precise 9-yard pass delivered by Jordan Love. This electrifying play propelled the Packers into a 7-3 lead, leaving 13:33 on the clock in the first half.
The Packers’ formidable defense had Atlanta in a dire third-and-15 predicament, courtesy of Kenny Clark’s expert maneuvering that forced an illegal hands-to-the-face penalty on Jake Matthews. Lukas Van Ness contributed to the defensive effort by tackling Tyler Allgeier for a two-yard loss.
Despite these setbacks, the resilient Falcons managed to defy the odds, converting the third down with a remarkable 22-yard pass to Drake London.
Quay Walker emerged as a pivotal figure, executing a critical stop on Bijan Robinson, preventing any gain on a short screen pass. Preston Smith showcased his prowess by forcing Ridder out of bounds at the 41-yard line, effectively setting up a fourth-and-4 situation for Atlanta on Green Bay’s 41-yard line. In a display of sheer determination, Robinson’s exceptional running ability breathed new life into what appeared to be a stalled play, resulting in a first down.
A short pass to Jonna Smith then yielded substantial yardage, putting the Packers’ defense on high alert. Alleger’s relentless carries continued to move the chains, inching the Falcons closer to paydirt. However, despite Ridder connecting with Mack Hollins in the end zone, the touchdown celebration was short-lived as it was ultimately ruled out of bounds upon review.
In the fourth quarter, Love made a crucial mistake. With the Packers leading 24-19 and a little over 10 minutes remaining, Coach Matt LA Fleur called for a play-action deep pass. You should also read Coco Gauff Shatters Records, Dominates U.S..
Love missed his read and threw to a well-covered Don Tayvion Wicks instead of the open Romeo Doubs, who might have scored on the play or at least put the Packers in a better position to score. This mistake proved costly and prevented the Packers from adding more points to their lead, putting additional pressure on their defense.
