Offense Conflicts
The Atlanta Falcons’ chances of making the playoffs were severely damaged after their loss to the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
The Atlanta Falcons (6-8) suffered a familiar late-game demise on Sunday inside Bank of America Stadium, losing 9-7 to the Carolina Panthers (2-12) in a game marred by inclement weather and offensive struggles.
In the last 7:35 of play, Panthers quarterback Bryce Young led a 17-play, 85-yard drive, and kicker Eddy Piniero made a 23-yard field goal to complete the victory.
Since October 29, Carolina had not triumphed in a game. It had suffered six straight defeats. In an attempt to end a six-year playoff drought, Atlanta entered in a three-way tie for the lead in the NFC South and a six-way tie for the last wildcard spot.
Nevertheless, the three drives Atlanta’s offense had in the second half ended in frustration due to a punt, a fumble by rookie running back Bijan Robinson, and a costly redzone interception by quarterback Desmond Ridder.
In the afternoon, Ridder completed 12 of 20 passes for 152 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. On 31 carries, Atlanta’s rushing offense managed just 52 yards.
Midway through the second quarter, running back Cordarrelle Patterson caught a pop pass from quarterback Ryan Ridder to give the Falcons the only touchdown of the game and a 7-0 lead.
Even so, Atlanta’s defense, which had played so well all afternoon, was unable to leave the field in the closing minutes, dealing a severe blow to its chances of making the playoffs.
The Panthers outgained the Falcons 283-204, and the Falcons only managed 12 first downs compared to Carolina’s 17.
