The first half of the Falcons and Panthers game was a case of penalties and bailouts. With the NFL’s 14th-ranked offense (39 percent) on third down, Matt Ryan was pressured into an interception and return for a touchdown on the Falcons’ first drive. The luck came on a personal-foul penalty on Julius Peppers, negating seven Panthers’ points and a second poor start on the road for the Falcons.
That, however, did not stop the Panthers from setting up a good offensive rhythm early; not because of a spitfire offense, but because of a horse-collar call on the Falcons on third and long. The result: Jonathan Stewart on an 8-yard touchdown. If the Falcons are to win, they cannot give breaks to the NFL’s third- worst third-down offense (25 percent), especially on the road. The problem for the Falcons has been critical missed tackles on both touchdowns – the second score from the Panthers coming from a 56-yard catch and run from the electric Steve Smith.
Pluses included the Falcons responding with a no-huddle offense on their second drive and showing good matriculation – until a false start brought on another third and long. The Panthers’ running game was subdued – limited to 39 first-half yards by a disruptive Falcons’ front four. John Abraham continues to be a terror and has even carried over his speed off the edge to special teams (blocked punt). The Falcons staff showed patience in the running game, and were rewarded with a 40-yard scamper by Jerious Norwood before the halftime mark.
For the Falcons to get the road win, the tackling must improve, Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme has to feel more pressure, and penalties on offense must decrease. Delhomme (12-for-18, 181 yards, TD) has been able to sling it around at will and physical receiver Muhsin Muhammad has abused Brent Grimes for 72 yards. Finally, despite the calls being questionable, Harvey Dahl was hit for two holding penalties in the first half that killed first-down chances for the Falcons.
So far, it’s been a game of missed opportunities for the Falcons, but if the team comes out in the second half more disciplined on offense and defense, the game could swing their way, especially with a manageable five-point deficit.
FIRST HALF NOTES
The Falcons lead the all-time series 15-10. … The road team has won the past five meetings in the Falcons/Panthers series. … Lawyer Milloy (ribs) is questionable to return after leaving in the first quarter. … Panthers OL Jordan Gross left the game in the first quarter with a head injury. … Entering the game, Roddy White had the highest yards-per-catch average in the NFL (21.5). … With his 38th career score, Steve Smith became the Panthers’ all-time touchdown leader.
Horne can be reached at ehorne@scoreatl.com.
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