Desmond Ridder, Atlanta Falcons Lead Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers at Halftime in Defensive Slugfest
Battling through rain-filled conditions Sunday at Bank of America Stadium, the Atlanta Falcons will head to the locker room with a 7-3 halftime lead over the Carolina Panthers.
The game began with promising offensive starts for both teams, as Atlanta and Carolina each marched into the other's territory ... but were stopped on fourth down while passing on 50-plus-yard field goals in the difficult weather.
But the first quarter came to an end with the two teams locked in a scoreless tie, as there were as many completed passes (six) as first downs, and four punts to go along with it.
The second quarter saw more offensive success, if only slightly, as a 56-yard completion from Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder to tight end Jonnu Smith gave Atlanta life.
Just two plays later, the Falcons scored the game's first touchdown on a two-yard pop pass from Ridder to running back Cordarrelle Patterson, pushing Atlanta ahead, 7-0.
But the Panthers responded, as rookie quarterback Bryce Young led a 12-play, 60-yard drive that ended with a 34-yard field goal from kicker Eddy Piniero, cutting the lead to 7-3.
Carolina Panthers cornerback Donte Jackson (26) and linebacker Frankie Luvu (49) tackle Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) during the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium.
Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Of note, the Falcons had a number of new faces playing bigger roles - even with multiple previously injured players listed as active.
Center Drew Dalman entered the day as questionable with an ankle injury but is suited up - and still, Ryan Neuzil received the start. Similarly, cornerback Jeff Okudah is active after missing last week with an ankle injury, but rookie Clark Phillips III started in place of him.
In a non-health related switch, the Falcons started DeMarcco Hellams over Richie Grant at safety alongside Jessie Bates III.
The Panthers will receive the ball to start the second half, with the Falcons looking to secure a much-needed win to help snap their six-year playoff drought.
