3 Falcons up, 3 Falcons down in Week 10 loss to Browns

The Atlanta Falcons decided they didn’t want to put themselves in a better position in the NFC playoff race, falling 28-16 to the Cleveland Browns, of all teams.

Who’s up and who’s down in the letdown?

Up

Julio Jones

Jones became the fastest receiver to reach 10,000 receiving yards, accomplishing the feat in just 104 games. He added a touchdown for the second week in a row, and finished with seven receptions for 107 yards. As if typically the case when the Falcons don’t perform well, Jones was one of the very few bright spots.

Damontae Kazee

The second-year player has proven to be a true ballhawk as he notched his fifth interception of the season. Kazee, who now leads the league in picks, has been a revelation this year. The Falcons will have to find ways to get him on the field next season once Ricardo Allen and Keanu Neal return.

Austin Hooper

Hooper set another career-high in receptions this season by hauling in 10 passes. He also added another touchdown, putting him at three for the year. With 46 passes on the season, Hooper is just three catches away from surpassing the 49 he caught last season.

Down

Dan Quinn

Let’s be clear: the Falcons had no business losing this game. In wake of De’Vondre Campbell saying the team essentially looked past the Browns, you have to look at the head coach. It’s on Quinn to prepare his team and make sure they’re taking each opponent seriously. Also, why in the world did he not challenge the should’ve been touchdown for Hooper late in the fourth quarter. The Falcons ended up wasting valuable time. Lastly, how is Quinn 6-10 versus the AFC?

Mohamed Sanu

Why exactly are you reaching the ball out when you’re about 10 yards away from a first down? Sanu’s third-quarter fumble was costly as the Browns scored six plays later to take a 21-10 lead.

Steve Sarkisian

Shotgun formation at the opponent’s 1-yard line should be a bannable offense.