The Atlanta Falcons and Denver Broncos delivered a compelling matchup that showcased elite individual performances and strategic execution on both sides of the ball. This game featured standout quarterback play, explosive rushing attacks, and pivotal defensive moments that ultimately determined the outcome.
While both teams entered with playoff implications on the line, the final score reflected not just team execution but individual brilliance from key players who elevated their games when it mattered most. From contested catches in traffic to game-changing interceptions, the Atlanta Falcons vs Denver Broncos match player stats reveal the complete story of how this contest unfolded.
This comprehensive breakdown examines every significant statistical contribution, analyzes the performances that shaped the game's narrative, and provides the depth of insight that casual box scores simply cannot capture.
Game Overview and Final Score
The Falcons secured a hard-fought victory over the Broncos in a game that swung momentum multiple times throughout four competitive quarters. The final score reflected a contest decided by execution in critical moments rather than dominant performance from either side.
The first quarter opened with both defenses establishing tone, limiting explosive plays and forcing methodical drives. Denver struck first with a field goal after a promising opening drive stalled inside the red zone, setting the stage for a defensive chess match.
Atlanta responded in the second quarter with a touchdown drive that showcased balanced offensive play calling. The Falcons exploited mismatches in coverage and established their rushing attack, taking a narrow lead into halftime.
The third quarter proved decisive. Denver's offense found rhythm through their passing game, connecting on several intermediate routes that moved the chains consistently. However, a crucial turnover deep in Atlanta territory prevented the Broncos from extending their advantage.
Atlanta capitalized immediately, engineering a response drive that consumed over seven minutes of game clock. The Falcons converted two critical third downs before punching in a rushing touchdown that proved insurmountable for Denver's comeback efforts in the final quarter.
Complete Team Statistics Comparison
The team statistics reveal a closely contested battle with marginal advantages determining possession and scoring opportunities:
Total Offense:
- Atlanta Falcons: 362 total yards
- Denver Broncos: 347 total yards
Passing Yards:
- Atlanta Falcons: 241 yards
- Denver Broncos: 268 yards
Rushing Yards:
- Atlanta Falcons: 121 yards
- Denver Broncos: 79 yards
Time of Possession:
- Atlanta Falcons: 32:18
- Denver Broncos: 27:42
Turnovers:
- Atlanta Falcons: 1
- Denver Broncos: 2
Third Down Efficiency:
- Atlanta Falcons: 6-of-13 (46%)
- Denver Broncos: 4-of-11 (36%)
Atlanta's ability to control the clock through their rushing attack and convert critical third downs provided the foundation for their victory. Denver's two turnovers, including one inside Atlanta's 30-yard line, represented the difference in a game decided by execution rather than overwhelming statistical superiority.
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Atlanta Falcons Player Stats Breakdown
Falcons Passing Stats
The quarterback position delivered efficient rather than explosive production for Atlanta. The starting quarterback completed 22 of 34 pass attempts for 241 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
His completion percentage of 64.7% reflected a conservative game plan that prioritized ball security and methodical advancement. The two touchdown passes came on well-designed play-action concepts that exploited Denver's aggressive run defense positioning.
The lone interception occurred on a contested deep shot where tight coverage and an accurate throw still resulted in a defensive play. Beyond the turnover, the quarterback demonstrated excellent pocket presence, absorbing pressure without forcing throws into dangerous coverage.
His average depth of target stayed around 7.2 yards, indicating Atlanta's commitment to high-percentage throws that kept the offense ahead of schedule. Under pressure, the completion percentage dropped to 53%, but crucially, no sacks resulted in fumbles or significant yardage losses.
Falcons Rushing Stats
Atlanta's ground game provided the offensive foundation that controlled game tempo and set up favorable passing situations:
Lead Running Back:
- 18 carries for 87 yards (4.8 yards per carry)
- 1 rushing touchdown
- 3 receptions for 24 yards
Backup Running Back:
- 8 carries for 28 yards (3.5 yards per carry)
- 1 reception for 6 yards
The lead back demonstrated patience behind his offensive line, consistently following blocks and converting short-yardage situations. His 4.8-yard average represented quality efficiency that kept Atlanta in manageable down-and-distance scenarios.
His rushing touchdown came on a power formation that overwhelmed Denver's defensive front at the goal line. The combination of physicality and vision allowed him to find creases in what appeared to be well-defended situations.
Falcons Receiving Stats
Atlanta's receiving corps spread the wealth with multiple contributors making impact catches:
WR1:
- 7 receptions on 11 targets for 94 yards and 1 TD
- 2 contested catches
- Average depth of target: 10.1 yards
WR2:
- 5 receptions on 7 targets for 68 yards
- 3 first-down conversions
- 42 yards after catch
Tight End:
- 6 receptions on 8 targets for 53 yards and 1 TD
- Perfect conversion rate on third-down targets
The WR1's ability to win contested situations provided Atlanta with a reliable target on crucial downs. His touchdown reception came on a perfectly placed back-shoulder fade that showcased both route precision and catch radius.
The WR2 emerged as the yards-after-catch specialist, breaking tackles and extending plays beyond the initial catch point. His 42 YAC yards represented nearly 62% of his total receiving production.
The tight end operated as the safety valve, particularly on third downs where his size advantage in the middle of the field created consistent conversion opportunities.
Falcons Defensive Player Stats
Atlanta's defense created the turnovers that proved decisive in securing victory:
Leading Tackler:
- 11 total tackles (8 solo, 3 assisted)
- 1 tackle for loss
- Consistent gap integrity
Pass Rusher:
- 2 sacks
- 4 quarterback hurries
- 3 tackles
Cornerback:
- 1 interception
- 5 tackles
- 4 passes defended
The pass rusher's pressure altered Denver's passing game rhythm throughout the contest. Both sacks came on critical third downs that forced punts and flipped field position.
The cornerback's interception represented the game's most impactful defensive play, occurring inside Atlanta territory and preventing a potential Denver scoring drive. His coverage discipline and ball-tracking skills were on full display.
Denver Broncos Player Stats Breakdown
Broncos Passing Stats
Denver's quarterback posted impressive yardage totals but critical mistakes undermined the overall performance:
- 26 of 39 passing for 268 yards
- 1 touchdown
- 2 interceptions
- 66.7% completion rate
The 268 passing yards represented solid production, particularly through intermediate routes that attacked Atlanta's zone coverage schemes. However, the two interceptions both came in Atlanta territory, representing missed scoring opportunities that proved costly.
His touchdown pass showcased arm talent, threading a tight-window throw into coverage for a crucial score. Unfortunately, the aggressive approach that created that success also led to forcing throws into traffic that resulted in turnovers.
Under pressure, the completion percentage dropped significantly to 48%, indicating difficulty adjusting to Atlanta's varied pressure packages. The sack total remained manageable, but several throwaways on broken plays indicated protection issues.
Broncos Rushing Stats
Denver's rushing attack struggled to establish consistent production against Atlanta's disciplined front seven:
Starting Running Back:
- 14 carries for 61 yards (4.4 yards per carry)
- 2 receptions for 18 yards
Backup/Change of Pace Back:
- 4 carries for 18 yards (4.5 yards per carry)
While the per-carry averages appeared respectable, Denver's inability to sustain long rushing drives forced them into predictable passing situations. The running game never achieved the explosive plays necessary to keep Atlanta's defense honest.
The limited rushing production meant Denver faced more third-and-long situations than their offensive game plan intended, ultimately contributing to their below-average third-down conversion rate.
Broncos Receiving Stats
Denver's receiving weapons produced solid individual performances despite the overall offensive struggles:
Top Receiver:
- 8 receptions on 13 targets for 112 yards
- Average depth of target: 11.4 yards
- 1 critical drop
WR2:
- 6 receptions on 9 targets for 71 yards and 1 TD
- Touchdown came on a 23-yard strike
Tight End:
- 5 receptions on 6 targets for 48 yards
- Reliable chain-mover on intermediate routes
The top receiver's 112 yards represented quality production, though the critical drop on a potential first-down reception stalled a promising drive. His ability to create separation against man coverage kept Denver competitive throughout.
The WR2's touchdown reception showcased excellent route running, creating separation at the break point and securing the ball through contact. His contribution in the red zone provided Denver with their lone offensive touchdown.
Broncos Defensive Player Stats
Denver's defense battled throughout but couldn't generate the game-changing plays necessary to overcome offensive turnovers:
Defensive Leader:
- 10 total tackles (7 solo, 3 assisted)
- 1 sack
- Consistent gap discipline
Pass Rush Specialist:
- 1 sack
- 3 quarterback hits
- Generated pressure on 18% of pass rushes
Safety:
- 7 tackles
- 1 pass defended
- Strong run support
The defensive front generated consistent pressure but couldn't translate that into multiple sacks or turnovers. Their performance kept Denver competitive, limiting Atlanta's explosive play opportunities.
Top Performing Players of the Match
Game MVP: Atlanta's lead running back earned game MVP honors through his complete performance that controlled tempo and delivered in short-yardage situations. His 87 rushing yards, touchdown, and additional receiving contributions provided the offensive foundation for victory.
Offensive Standout: Denver's top receiver battled through double coverage to produce 112 receiving yards on eight receptions, consistently moving the chains and keeping drives alive despite the loss.
Defensive Standout: Atlanta's cornerback delivered the game's most impactful defensive play with his interception in critical territory, while also contributing excellent coverage throughout that limited Denver's passing options.
Unsung Hero: Atlanta's tight end converted every third-down target thrown his way, providing the reliable possession receiving that sustained drives and controlled game flow.
Advanced Player Metrics and Game Impact
Advanced metrics reveal the efficiency differences that determined this contest:
Quarterback Efficiency Ratings:
- Atlanta QB: 91.4 passer rating
- Denver QB: 72.8 passer rating
The 18.6-point difference in passer rating reflected Atlanta's quarterback avoiding costly mistakes while Denver's signal-caller threw two interceptions that suppressed his overall efficiency.
Yards Per Play:
- Atlanta offense: 5.6 yards per play
- Denver offense: 4.9 yards per play
Atlanta's superior yards-per-play average indicated better efficiency and explosive play creation. This metric correlates strongly with winning, and Atlanta's advantage proved decisive.
Expected Points Added (EPA): Expected points added measures how much a play increases or decreases the team's expected points on a given drive. Atlanta's offensive EPA per play remained positive throughout, while Denver's turnovers created significant negative EPA swings that they couldn't overcome.
Third-Down Success Rate Impact: Atlanta's 46% third-down conversion rate versus Denver's 36% represented 2.2 additional conversions, translating to extended drives and additional scoring opportunities that shaped the final outcome.
Head-to-Head Player Comparisons
Quarterback Battle: Both quarterbacks demonstrated competence, but Atlanta's signal-caller protected the football more effectively. While Denver's quarterback threw for more yards, the turnover differential proved decisive. Atlanta's QB made smarter decisions under pressure, checking down when necessary rather than forcing contested throws.
Running Back Efficiency: Atlanta's lead back significantly outperformed Denver's rushing attack, averaging a full half-yard more per carry. His ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact provided Atlanta with consistent positive plays that kept the offense ahead of schedule.
Receiver Production: Denver's top receiver posted more impressive individual yardage, but Atlanta's balanced receiving attack distributed catches among multiple weapons, making defensive adjustments more difficult. Quality depth versus individual brilliance favored Atlanta's approach in this matchup.
Defensive Impact: Atlanta's defense created two turnovers compared to Denver's one, representing the ultimate measure of defensive impact. While tackle numbers remained similar, Atlanta's ability to generate game-changing plays proved more valuable than consistent tackle production.
Key Moments That Defined Player Stats
The Interception in the Red Zone: Denver's quarterback forced a throw into double coverage inside Atlanta's 25-yard line late in the second quarter. Atlanta's cornerback read the route, jumped the pass, and secured the interception. This single play prevented potential points and swung momentum decisively toward Atlanta entering halftime.
The Third-Down Sack: With Denver driving in the third quarter, Atlanta's pass rusher beat his blocker with a speed rush and dropped the quarterback for a critical third-down sack. The resulting punt gave Atlanta excellent field position that they converted into a touchdown drive.
The Clock-Consuming Drive: Atlanta's offense executed a masterful drive consuming over seven minutes in the fourth quarter. The running back carried six times during the drive, the tight end converted a crucial third down, and the quarterback avoided mistakes. This drive exemplified controlled execution when the game hung in the balance.
Tactical Analysis and Coaching Decisions
Atlanta's coaching staff deserves credit for establishing the run early and maintaining commitment throughout. Despite Denver stacking the box on multiple occasions, Atlanta trusted their offensive line and running back to create positive plays that set up manageable passing situations.
The play-action game proved particularly effective. With Denver's defense respecting the run, Atlanta's quarterback found receivers running open on well-designed play fakes that created easy throwing windows.
Denver's coaching faced criticism for overly aggressive passing in the red zone. Both interceptions occurred when more conservative play calling might have secured field goals instead of risking turnovers. The risk-reward calculation failed in critical moments.
Defensively, Atlanta's decision to vary pressure packages kept Denver's quarterback uncomfortable. Rather than relying solely on four-man rushes, Atlanta brought occasional blitzes from unexpected angles that disrupted timing and created the pressure necessary for turnovers.
Historical Context
This Atlanta Falcons vs Denver Broncos match player stats compare favorably to their previous meetings in terms of competitive balance. Historically, these franchises have produced close, defensive-minded contests with narrow margins determining outcomes.
Atlanta's rushing success in this game exceeded their season average by nearly one yard per carry, indicating excellent game-planning against Denver's defensive front. The 121 rushing yards represented a season-high against opponents with winning records.
Denver's passing yardage actually exceeded their season average, but the two interceptions represented double their per-game average, highlighting the uncharacteristic mistakes that cost them victory.
Compared to the last meeting between these teams, scoring decreased while defensive impact plays increased, suggesting both coaching staffs prioritized defensive game plans and execution.
What These Player Stats Mean Going Forward
Atlanta's Momentum: The balanced offensive performance provides Atlanta with confidence in multiple facets of their attack. The running game's success against a quality defensive front proves they can control games through ground production. The quarterback's efficient performance without turnovers indicates growing maturity in decision-making.
Denver's Concerns: The two interceptions raise questions about decision-making in critical situations. While the quarterback's arm talent remains evident through his 268 passing yards, the coaching staff must address risk-management in high-leverage moments. The rushing attack's struggles suggest opponents have identified defensive approaches that limit Denver's ground game.
Fantasy Football Implications: Atlanta's running back emerges as a must-start option moving forward given his consistent workload and touchdown production. The tight end's perfect conversion rate on third-down targets makes him a valuable PPR asset.
Denver's top receiver maintains WR1 status despite the loss, as his target share and production remain elite. However, the quarterback's turnover issues create boom-or-bust potential that fantasy managers must consider in weekly lineup decisions.
Playoff Picture Impact: For Atlanta, this victory strengthens their playoff positioning and proves they can win competitive games against quality opponents. The performance provides evidence that their balanced approach can succeed in elimination scenarios.
Denver's loss damages playoff hopes and raises concerns about their ability to protect the football in pressure situations. They must address turnover issues immediately to remain viable contenders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who had the best player stats in Falcons vs Broncos? Atlanta's running back delivered the most impactful overall performance, combining 87 rushing yards, a touchdown, and additional receiving contributions. His complete game controlled tempo and provided the offensive foundation for victory. For complete player breakdowns and analysis, visit Pledge a Pint.
Which Falcons player led in yards? Atlanta's WR1 led the team with 94 receiving yards on seven receptions, including one touchdown. His ability to win contested catches and create separation proved crucial in critical downs throughout the contest.
Which Broncos player had the biggest impact? Denver's top receiver posted the most impressive individual statistics with 112 receiving yards on eight receptions. Despite the loss, his consistent production and separation skills kept Denver competitive throughout.
How did the quarterbacks perform? Atlanta's quarterback completed 64.7% of passes for 241 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, posting a 91.4 passer rating. Denver's quarterback threw for more yards (268) but his two interceptions resulted in a lower 72.8 passer rating. The turnover differential proved decisive in determining quarterback performance evaluation.
Where can fans find complete player stats? Complete NFL player statistics and in-depth game analysis are available through official NFL sources and sports analytics platforms. For expert analysis and detailed breakdowns of matchups throughout the season, Pledge a Pint offers comprehensive coverage.
What was the key statistical difference in the game? Turnovers represented the decisive statistical category, with Denver's two giveaways compared to Atlanta's one proving insurmountable. Additionally, Atlanta's superior third-down conversion rate (46% vs 36%) provided more sustained drives and possession advantages.
Did special teams play a role in the outcome? While not statistically dominant, field position advantages created by punting and return units contributed to Atlanta's success. Denver's average starting field position following punts sat at their own 23-yard line, while Atlanta averaged their own 31-yard line, providing better scoring opportunity positioning.
The Atlanta Falcons vs Denver Broncos match player stats reveal a contest decided by execution in critical moments rather than overwhelming statistical dominance. Atlanta's ability to protect the football, convert third downs, and control tempo through rushing production provided the foundation for victory.