Falcons Capitalize on Raiders' Miscues to Maintain Lead
Costly mistakes by the Raiders gave the Falcons favorable field position early, allowing Atlanta to take control of the game.
The Falcons' opening drive began at the Raiders' 48-yard line after an Alexander Mattison fumble. However, the Raiders' defense held strong, with rookie defensive tackle Jonah Laulu sacking Kirk Cousins for a 10-yard loss on third down, pushing Atlanta out of field goal range.
On the Raiders' next possession, a tipped punt set up Atlanta near midfield at their own 49-yard line. This time, the Falcons capitalized, scoring in six plays on a 30-yard touchdown pass from Kirk Cousins to Drake London.
In the second quarter, Ameer Abdullah’s fair catch at the three-yard line pinned the Raiders deep. Two plays later, the Falcons' defense forced a safety on a run play, extending their lead.
Numbers to Know
- The Raiders' offense managed only one scoring drive, a field goal, after crossing midfield.
- Falcons running back Bijan Robinson was efficient, averaging 5.8 yards per carry on 10 attempts. Meanwhile, Las Vegas' Sincere McCormick struggled with seven carries for just eight yards before leaving the game with an ankle injury.
- Kirk Cousins ended a four-game streak without a passing touchdown.
- Tight end Brock Bowers led the Raiders with three receptions for 35 yards, while no Raiders wide receiver recorded a target in the first half.
