The Atlanta Falcons laid an egg in their season-opening matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers, falling 38-19 in a game that was never truly competitive. The Steelers dominated the game from start to finish, forcing three turnovers and holding the Falcons to just 236 total yards.
The Atlanta Falcons' season got off to a disastrous start on Sunday, as they were thoroughly embarrassed by the Pittsburgh Steelers in a 38-19 defeat.
The game was never truly competitive, as the Steelers dominated from start to finish. They forced three turnovers, held the Falcons to just 236 total yards, and sacked quarterback Matt Ryan five times.
Falcons Embarrassed in Season-Opening Debacle Against Steelers
The Falcons' offense was particularly inept, struggling to move the ball consistently. Ryan was harassed all day by the Steelers' pass rush, and he finished the game with just 217 passing yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.
The running game was equally ineffective, as Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman combined for just 58 rushing yards.
The Steelers, meanwhile, had no such problems on offense. Ben Roethlisberger threw for 333 yards and three touchdowns, and running back James Conner rushed for 107 yards and a score.
The Falcons' defense was also a major disappointment. They allowed the Steelers to convert 10 of 17 third downs and failed to generate any pressure on Roethlisberger.
The loss drops the Falcons to 0-1 on the season, while the Steelers improve to 1-0.
Here are some additional highlights from the game:
* **The Steelers scored on their first three possessions of the game, taking a 17-0 lead.**
* **The Falcons finally got on the board with a field goal late in the second quarter, but the Steelers responded with a touchdown drive to go up 24-3 at halftime.**
* **The Falcons scored a touchdown on the opening drive of the second half, but the Steelers again answered with a touchdown drive of their own.**
* **The Steelers put the game away with a field goal and a touchdown in the fourth quarter.**
The Falcons will look to rebound next week when they host the Carolina Panthers. The Steelers will host the Cleveland Browns.
