Can the Atlanta Falcons Bounce Back After Soldier Field Setback?
The Atlanta Falcons faced a challenging game at Soldier Field, ending with a 7-9 record after succumbing to the Chicago Bears with a score of 17-37. The Bears matched this record, but their commanding performance on home turf was evident in the final tally.
The Falcons entered the game with determination, but despite their efforts, they struggled to find consistency. The offense managed to accumulate 307 total yards, with a notable contribution from the rushing department which accounted for 134 yards across 24 attempts. This included an impressive longest rush of 24 yards that resulted in one of their two touchdowns for the day. However, they were less successful through the air; completing only 13 out of 33 passing attempts for a total of 180 yards and one touchdown pass that stood out as their longest play at an impressive distance of 75 yards.
On special teams, field goal execution was below expectations as only one out of three attempts sailed through the uprights from within 39 yards. The kicking team did manage to secure touchbacks on two kickoff occasions and kept kick return yardage to just under double digits at an average net yardage per punt standing at around mid-thirties.
Defensively, there were moments where the Falcons showed resilience; recording three sacks and forcing four hurries against their opponents. They also managed three forced turnovers including one forced fumble which they recovered themselves. Despite these efforts, missed tackles numbered into double digits and no interceptions were made throughout the contest.
The Bears' offense capitalized on opportunities presented by turnovers and defensive lapses by converting them into points on several occasions. Their defense held strong against third-down conversions allowing only about thirty percent success rate while completely shutting down any fourth-down attempts by Atlanta.
As fans look ahead after this tough loss, attention turns toward future matchups where improvement will be sought after in all facets of play – offense, defense and special teams alike.
Looking forward to what's next for Atlanta Falcons fans: The team is scheduled to face off against New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome on January 7th at noon local time (1 PM Eastern Time). This upcoming encounter can be watched live on CBS where supporters will hope for a better outcome than witnessed during Week Seventeen's challenge in Chicago.