The Atlanta Falcons make the trip across the border to face the Carolina Panthers this Sunday.
Week 3 of the NFL is upon us as the Atlanta Falcons gear up for their second NFC South clash of the season.
The Dirty Birds travel to Carolina full of confidence after securing their first win of the campaign against the Minnesota Vikings.
Carolina, on the other hand, slumped to a 0-2 record following a loss to the Arizona Cardinals.
Recent history suggests an even rivalry, with 1-1 ties in the last five seasons.
However, last time out, the Panthers condemned the Falcons to a 44-38 overtime loss. That defeat effectively ended the Falcons’ season.
Offensive improvement needed
While the Falcons have the second-best total defense in the NFL, their offense leaves much to be desired.
The Dirty Birds did put up 22 points last time out, but 15 of these came from field goals.
New kicker Parker Romo impressed, securing the full-time role. But with only three touchdowns in the first two games, work is needed.
Bijan Robinson has been the talking point on offense, rushing for 143 yards.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris went on to say that Robinson was the “best player in football, without a doubt”.
Panthers need a win
Under Head Coach Dave Canales, the Carolina Panthers want to improve on their 5-12 record from 2024.
After a difficult start, there is hope for Bryce Young’s improvement after he showed promise late in the previous season.
The offense is viewed as a relative strength since it is supported by a more reliable line and a talented rookie wideout.
However, with two starters on injured reserve, injuries have already harmed the offensive front and run game.
The team continues to struggle defensively, ranking close to the bottom in a number of categories.
Tale of the tape
Quarterbacks: Michael Penix Jr. (ATL) | Bryce Young (CAR)
WR1 and WR2: Drake London (ATL), Darnell Mooney (ATL) | Tetairoa McMillan (CAR), Hunter Renfrow (CAR)
Running backs: Bijan Robinson (ATL) | Chuba Hubbard (CAR)
Head Coach: Raheem Morris (ATL) | Dave Canales (CAR)
Offensive Coordinator: Zac Robinson (ATL) | Brad Idzik (CAR)
Defensive Coordinator: Jeff Ulbrich (ATL) | Ejiro Evero (CAR)
2024 Record: Atlanta Falcons (8-9) | Carolina Panthers (5-12)
2025 Round 1 pick(s): Jalen Walker (ATL), James Pearce (ATL) | Tetairoa McMillan (CAR)
2024 Result: Panthers 44-38 (OT) Falcons | Falcons 38-20 Panthers
