Comeback Falls Short: After falling behind 17-3 at intermission, the Falcons staged a second-half comeback by scoring three touchdowns in the third to give them a 24-17 lead. Seattle scored a fourth-quarter touchdown to bring them within one, but Ra'Shede Hageman blocked the ensuing extra point to keep the Falcons ahead. The Seahawks forced a late turnover, though, and took advantage when Steven Hauschka made a field goal with 1:57 left in regulation. Atlanta went four and out on the ensuing drive and, as a result, lost 26-24.
Seattle's Pass Rush Brings the Heat: The Seahawks weren't afraid to blitz Ryan, and that aggressive approach proved to be effective — especially in the opening 30 minutes. In total, Seattle defenders hit Ryan on 13 occasions, sacked him four times and rarely provided him with a clean pocket. The Seahawks' work at the line of scrimmage buoyed them to a 17-3 lead in the first half and held Atlanta to 59 rushing yards on 18 carries.
Ryan Stands Tall: Ryan wasn't fazed by all the pressure he faced, completing 27 of 42 passes for 335 yards, three touchdowns and an interception. His touchdown throws were just the second, third and fourth the Seahawks have surrendered all year.
And by completing his second TD of the contest, Ryan amassed 200-plus passing yards for the 45th-straight regular season game — tying him with Dan Fouts for the longest streak of all-time.
Julio Shines: Two weeks after his career-best game, Julio Jones had another big day, earning seven receptions for 139 yards and a TD. His score, which ignited the Falcons' comeback early in the third, was a 36-yard grab that exposed a big pocket in Seattle's zone coverage.
Jones' one mistake of the afternoon was costly, however: With less than four minutes left in regulation, and with the Falcons up 24-23, a ball bounced off his hands and was intercepted by Earl Thomas, which allowed Seattle's offense to march downfield and get into Hauschka's range.
Toilolo Comes Through: Normally used in a blocking role, Levine Toilolo had the most productive game of his career, hauling in three catches for 69 yards and a score. His touchdown, a 46-yarder, gave the Falcons a 24-17 edge in the fourth quarter. The tight end also notched an 18-yard reception on the following drive.
