Instant analysis of Falcons’ Week 8 win over the Panthers

Let’s quickly recap the Falcons’ offensive, defensive and special teams performances in their Week 8 matchup.

After another promising performance by all three phases on Thursday night, the Atlanta Falcons again found themselves in another tight ballgame against the Carolina Panthers in the closing minutes.

This time, the Falcons would answer the bell, intercepting Panthers quarterback Teddy Bridgewater with a minute left to hold on for a 25-17 victory.

Let’s quickly recap Atlanta’s offensive, defensive and special teams performances in their Week 8 win over Carolina.

OFFENSE

(AP Photo/Gerry Broome)

The Falcons’s offense was good but had trouble closing the deal in the red zone, settling for four field goals. Still, the team took care of the ball, got it into Julio Jones’ hands and did enough for a win on Thursday.

Matt Ryan was solid for most of the game. While he missed a couple throws, but was good late. Ryan threw for 281 yards and an interception and spread the ball around.

Wide receiver Calvin Ridley left the game in the second quarter after an ankle injury and wouldn’t return. Jones picked up the slack, though. He’d finish with seven catches for 137 yards.

Todd Gurley was in and out of the lineup, but rushed for 46 yards and his eighth touchdown of the season. It was good, not great performance from the offense on Thursday night.