The Atlanta Falcons defeated the New York Giants 23-20 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The Monday Night Football matchup turned into a quarterback showcase as both Matt Ryan and Eli Manning threw for over 350 yards while finishing with equally impressive QBR ratings (Manning – 113.8; Ryan – 115.7). Tonight’s win makes two-straight for Atlanta.
After being down the majority of the night, the Giants weren’t able to mount their comeback until it was too little, too late. With the score sitting at 20-6 in Atlanta’s favor, the Giants put together two scoring drives in the final six minutes of the game. Saquon Barkley ran in a two-yard touchdown but they failed the 2-pt conversion. After two botched QB sneak attempts, Eli Manning found Odell Beckham Jr. in the back corner for the touchdown with nine seconds remaining.
But the win was sealed with Giorgio Tavecchio’s game-winning kick. The new Falcons-signee nailed a 56-yard field goal two minutes left in the game.
Odell Beckham Jr. did what Odell Beckham Jr. is expected to do every game: perform. He caught eight catches for 143 yards and that late touchdown to bring the game within five. His touchdown catch showcased some impressive balance, keeping his feet just inside the end-zone for the score.
The only Giants receiver to rack up more yards than Beckham Jr. was Sterling Shepard. Shepard had five catches for 167 yards.
The Falcon’s sole touchdown reception came from Marvin Hall, along with 63 yards receiving for the night. Julio Jones had nine receptions totaling 104 yards.
“He is one of the elite quarterbacks,” said Giants linebacker Kareem Martin. “We’ve got to keep constant pressure and be great in coverage.”
The Falcons improve to 3-4 overall and increase their win streak to two games. They’ll have next week off and return to action Nov. 4 against the Washington Redskins.
-Jon J.
Photo: Hakim Wright