Atlanta Falcons soar back with commanding win as Drake London and Michael Penix Jr. lead the charge
A week after suffering a humiliating 30-0 defeat to the Carolina Panthers, the Atlanta Falcons delivered a resounding statement with a 34-27 victory over the Washington Commanders. This bounce-back performance not only marked a significant turnaround for the team but also earned key players high grades from Pro Football Focus (PFF).
Key Player Performances
The Falcons’ offense displayed its best outing of the season, showcasing a blend of resilience and skill. Drake London emerged as the standout performer, receiving a remarkable 91.3 grade from PFF—the highest of any player in the game. London’s impressive stats included eight receptions for 110 yards and his first touchdown of the season, finally breaking through with a 100-yard performance.
Behind London’s brilliance, quarterback Michael Penix Jr. also made waves, earning an 84.4 grade. In a commendable display of growth, Penix bounced back from a rough Week 3, where he threw two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. Against the Commanders, he completed an impressive 76.9% of his passes, racking up over 300 yards and tossing two touchdowns. For the first time this season, he effectively connected on deep passes, showcasing his potential as a game-changer.
Contributions from the Offense
Tight end Kyle Pitts and running back Tyler Allgeier also contributed significantly to the Falcons’ offensive resurgence. Pitts, who caught his first touchdown of the season, added a season-high 70 yards to his tally. His reliable catches proved crucial in critical moments, helping the Falcons maintain momentum and convert essential third downs.
Allgeier, who had been virtually absent in the previous week’s loss with just one carry, turned the tide in Week 4. He carried the ball 16 times for 51 yards, including a standout 15-yard touchdown run where he showcased his impressive strength by powering through defenders.
A Team on the Rise
The Falcons’ performance against the Commanders was not just about individual accolades but a collective effort to right the ship after a disheartening week. With strong contributions from both established stars and emerging talents, Atlanta demonstrated its potential to compete in the league. As they move forward, the team will look to build on this momentum and continue to soar in the coming weeks.
