Defense, Bryant Help Falcons' Win

The Atlanta Falcons pulled out a win on Sunday and avoided another upset by beating the Arizona Cardinals, 23-19. Both offense's were anemic in a game dominated by both teams' defensive units.
Arizona scored thirteen points in the first quarter to stake themselves to an early lead, but only kicked two field goals the rest of the game. It was their sixth consecutive loss and puts them at 4-6 on the year. The Cardinals even replaced starting quarterback John Skelton with rookie quarterback Ryan Lindley to try and create some offense but it didn't work for them. Former Falcons' kicker Jay Feely had a good day for the Cardinals, kicking four field goals. Running back LaRod Stephens-Howling had a good day too, as he rushed for 127 yards, but was the Cardinals only option on offense.
Kicker Matt Bryant led the Falcons offense, kicking three clutch field goals, and the strong defense pushed Atlanta to the win. Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux had a fumble recovery that he returned for a touchdown on a play that appeared to be an incomplete pass as Lindley threw the ball for the Cardinals. No whistle blew though and Babineaux alertly picked up the ball and ran into the end zone. The Falcons scored their other touchdown on a one yard run by Michael Turner, who redeemed himself after failing on the same play against the New Orleans Saints last Sunday.
Ryan had a horrible day at quarterback, completing 28 of his 46 passes for 301 yards but throwing a career-high five interceptions. That mark also set a Falcons' record, one he wouldn't like to hold. The running game was again non-existent as Turner only gained 46 yards on the ground. Roddy White had a good day, catching the ball eight times for 123 yards, most of that came in the first half though as the Cardinals started shutting him down after halftime. Corner back Robert McClain led the team with seven tackles, defensive end John Abraham had two sacks and linebacker Stephen Nicolas got a huge sack that resulted in a fourteen yard loss. Receiver Julio Jones left the game after re-injuring his ankle and didn't return.
Despite playing a very sloppy game, the win gives the Falcons a 9-1 record. They will play the Tampa Buccaneers next Sunday, who are on a roll now. Ryan will have to play a lot better next week to help the Falcons win. Also, the Falcons will hope linebacker Sean Weatherspoon can return and that Jones' ankle won't keep him out next Sunday in a big match-up between division rivals.

The Falcons' John Abraham sacks Cardinals' quarterback Ryan Lindley. The defense saved this game as they held the Cardinals' offense multiple times throughout the game.
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