The downward spiral is real when opposing kickers start talking crazy to you.
Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo and owner Arthur Blank walked down the corridor arm in arm en route to the locker room. Reveling in their 38-20 win against division rival Carolina Panthers, the 7th-year kicker had some pointed and provocative words.
“Keep Stanking.” he taunted.
For three quarters, the Panthers fought and were within one possession. Ultimately, the home team couldn’t get out of their own way. Here are observations from Carolina’s Week 6 loss.
No Shame In A Checkdown
Gunning for a huge downfield play on 2nd and 8, Andy Dalton threw a pass intended for tight end Ian Thomas only for Falcons CB AJ Terrell to pick it off. Before the interception, Dalton and the Panthers’ offense built a solid drive. They did a good job protecting the football and Chubba Hubbard moved the chains in the run game. Instead of taking that shot to Thomas downfield, there were check down options that could’ve kept the drive and their hopes for an upset alive.
Dalton took accountability in his postgame interview.
“I think if I would’ve let go a little earlier, I would have had him. (Thomas),” he said. “I tried to get the ball down the field. If I had to go back and do it again, I would have checked it down.”
Defense Woes Continue
The only time Atlanta punted was on their opening drive. Since then, they converted on six of their 12 third down conversion attempts and scored on seven of their last eight possessions. The Falcons also had the edge in rushing net yards (198) and passing net yards (225). Carolina continues to struggle in rush defense and also in the secondary. CB Jaycee Horn expressed frustration in his unit being unable to help the offense and insisted that their struggles have little to do with strategy.
“It ain’t about the schemes. It’s about the players. Players make plays so our defensive players got to be better. Myself included,” he said.
Bright Spot For Offense?
Dalton interception aside, Carolina’s offense looked solid and competent. Hubbard steamed the unit with 18 carries for 92 yards. Dalton distributed the ball evenly among the receivers. In this loss, it looks as if the offense is forming an identity. The unit’s strength is in the run game and a conservative pass game. The approach isn’t flashy, but it’s a foundation that this team needs to lean into regardless of record.
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