The Falcons went into their most hostile environment they will face all year and beat down the Saints, 45-24. It’s hard to fathom that just two weeks ago, Atlanta was looking like the worst team in football. Now with Penix back, the Falcons have looked like one of the best teams in the NFL.
It’s always a pleasure to leave New Orleans with a win, but to be dominate in this fashion was extra sweet. While there were no "duds" this week, there were quite a few "studs" to mention following the Falcons' Monday Night Football win in Week 4.
Stud - Falcons' entire defense
Before we can mention anyone on the offensive side of the ball, the Falcons defense needs to get their flowers first. With the amount of players missing due to injuries, suspensions and what have you, the entire unit
stepped up on Monday Night. Saints QB Shough got hit on almost every snap it seemed and the defensive front held Kamara to just 23 yards rushing. New Orleans rushed for just 50 yards.
Stud - HB Bijan Robinson
Bijan had a typical Bijan night, totaling 145 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns. He also set the tone early with an untouched 59-yard touchdown on the third play of the game. Robinson is so good that it's easy to take him for granted, but he makes the entire offense go each week.
Stud - Harold Perkins Jr.
The rookie has been a true late-round gem for the Falcons this season. Perkins finished with 10 tackles (7 solo), 0.5 sacks, one pass defended and one QB hit. His versatility has been huge for Atlanta's defense.
Stud - HB Brian Robinson
When Bijan needed a rest, Brian Robinson stepped in and picked up where he left off. Brian Robinson ended the night with three touchdowns on 62 yards. He was a workhorse in short yardage scenarios and was a key player in moving the sticks
Stud - QB Michael Penix Jr.
If Penix started the season, the Falcons would be undefeated and possess one of the league’s best offenses. Even when the Saints applied pressure, Penix stood firm and delivered rockets downfield to receivers. It’s a true testament as to how important quarterback play is in the NFL. The Falcons are a different team with him under center than they are without him.
Stud - WR Drake London
London ended the night four yards shy of 100 yards, but did so on five receptions. With Penix at quarterback, London has become a key figure in the Falcons passing offense and is crucial for big gains downfield.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Studs and Duds from Falcons' Week 4 win over the Saints
