3 Falcons up, 3 Falcons down in Week 16 win over Panthers

Feeling rather generous on Christmas Eve, the Atlanta Falcons dashed the Carolina Panthers’ slim postseason hopes with a 33-16 smackdown.

Let’s see who's up and who's down in the win.

Up

Defensive backs

Each of the members in the secondary played extremely well. Jalen Collins and Brian Poole both notched career-first interceptions; Robert Alford had a particularly nice pass break up; and Ricardo Allen and Keanu Neal turned in solid outings. Cam Newton completed just 18 of 43 passes for 198 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.

D.J. Tialavea

How awesome is it to play in your first NFL game and get your first touchdown reception? The tight end two years ago apparently was sleeping on the floor at a family friend’s house and working two jobs. Incredible.

Tevin Coleman

These are the types of games we’re used to seeing from the electric running back. He led the game with 90 rushing yards, including a backbreaking 55-yard touchdown scamper that came after a 31-yard reception on 3rd and 21.

Down

Jake Matthews

It was a rough game for the left tackle as he allowed two sacks: one to Kony Ealy (who also forced a fumble) and the other to Mario Addison. Uncharacteristic, but luckily neither resulted in a turnover.

Taylor Gabriel

Gabriel was held to three receptions for 15 yards and no touchdowns. Unacceptable!

Offense

What do you mean they didn't score 40 points? Inconceivable!

—-

Who’s up and who’s down for you?