Matt Bryant’s Field Goal Gives Falcons 37-34 Victory Over Rival Saints

The Atlanta Falcons defeated the New Orleans Saints 37-34, in overtime, when Matt Bryant made a 52-yard field goal. Bryant sent the game into overtime when he kicked a 51-yard goal as time expired in the fourth quarter. Falcons Quarterback Matt Ryan had a career game throwing for a franchise-record 448 yards to go along with three touchdowns. Julio Jones led the Falcons with 7 catches and game-high 116 yards, Jones looked the same as he did last season before a season ending injury to his foot in October. Harry Douglas had 6 catches for 69 yards for the Falcons.

Roddy White and newcomer Devin Hester each had 5 catches for the Falcons, Hester had 99 yards in his Falcons debut and White had 72 yards and a touchdown. New starting Tight End Levine Toilolo had 3 catches for 19 yards and a touchdown and Running Back Steven Jackson led the Falcons with 52 yards rushing. Kicker Matt Bryant was perfect making all three of his field goal attempts for the Falcons.

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees threw for 333 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception. Running Back Mark Ingram had 13 carries for 60 yards and 2 touchdowns for the Saints. Marques Colston had 5 catches and team-high 110 yards receiving for the Saints. Jimmy Graham led the Saints with a game-high 8 catches for 82 yards. Rookie Wide Receiver Brandin Cooks had 7 catches for 77 yards and a touchdown.

This rivalry lived up to the expectations and the Saints will definitely try to get revenge when the Falcons come to New Orleans for the final regular season meeting. Matt Ryan’s arm and Matt Bryant’s leg came through for the Falcons and were the reason the Falcons were able to #RiseUp. The Falcons got the momentum and it’s up to them to keep it up so they can return to the playoffs.