Falcons verlieren erstes Heimspiel gegen Pittsburgh Steelers

Sep 10, 2024 at 09:47 AM

Fabienne Lampe

Sports Journalist and Podcaster (NFL)

ATLANTA, GA – Die Atlanta Falcons verlieren das Auftaktspiel der neuen Saison und müssen eine herbe 18:10 Niederlage gegen die Pittsburgh Steelers einstecken.

Trotz eines fulminanten Touchdowns durch Tight End Kyle Pitts konnten die Atlanta Falcons die Pittsburgh Steelers im ersten Spiel der Saison nicht stoppen und mussten sich am Ende vor allem der Defensive der Steelers um T.J. Watt geschlagen geben.

"Diese Jungs haben Spielzüge gemacht. In der zweiten Halbzeit haben wir den Ball verloren, wir haben Leuten ins Gesicht geschlagen und einige andere Dinge dieser Art. Das dürfen wir nicht tun. Wir müssen in allen Bereichen besser spielen - im Blocking, in der Defense", sagte Head Coach Raheem Morris im Anschluss an das Spiel über die Defensive der Steelers und die Arbeit, die in der kommenden Woche vor ihm und seinem Team liegt.

So verlief das Spiel:

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Die Steelers gingen nach vielem Hin und Her mit ihrem Backup Quarterback Justin Fields an den Start, nachdem sie Starting Quarterback Russel Wilson erst am Sonntag endgültig für inaktiv erklärten. Zeitgleich betrat Quarterback Kirk Cousins zum ersten Mal in Falcons-Uniform den Gridiron im Mercedes-Benz-Stadium in Atlanta. Der erste Offensiv-Drive der Falcons begann an der eigenen 30-Yard-Linie und die Offense arbeitete sich fest entschlossen bis zur 6-Yard-Linie der Steelers vor. Während seines allerersten Passversuchs der Saison, der für Wide Receiver Darnell Mooney bestimmt war, warf Cousins den Ball allerdings beinahe in die Arme von Steelers Cornerback Donte Jackson, der in der Offseason von den Carolina Panthers nach Pittsburgh kam. Jackson ließ den Ball glücklicherweise fallen und die Falcons behielten den Ballbesitz. Am Ende dieses Drives konnten sie zwar nicht mit einem Touchdown in Führung gehen, jedoch brachte Atlanta-Kicker Younghoe Koo mit einem Field Goal über 24 Yards die ersten drei Punkte der Partie aufs Board.

Nun war es an der Defensive, zu zeigen, was in ihr steckt und die Steelers von der Punktetafel zu halten. Dies gelang zumindest insoweit, dass die Defense – wie auch im gesamten Verlauf des Spiels – keinen Touchdown der Steelers zuließ. Nach zehn Spielzügen für 31 Yards erzielte Pittsburgh mit einem Field Goal von Kicker Chris Boswell über 57 Yards den Ausgleich.

Während des dritten Drives im ersten Viertel warf Cousins dann während seines siebten Passversuchs die erste Interception in die Arme von Safety DeShon Elliott und sorgte dafür, dass die Offensive der Steelers zurück aufs Feld kam.

ENDE 1. VIERTEL: Steelers 3, Falcons 3

Viertel

Die Falcons gingen mit einem jedenfalls soliden 3:3 in das zweite Viertel. Doch die Steelers waren gewillt, diesen Punktestand zu ihrem Vorteil zu ändern und gingen nach einem weiteren langen Field Goal von 51 Yards durch Boswell in Führung (6:3).

Im nächsten Drive der Falcons mussten sowohl Team als auch Fans zittern, als die Falcons bei einem ersten Versuch an der 17-Yard-Linie der Steelers ihr nächstes Play starteten. Steelers Linebacker T.J. Watt bahnte sich seinen Weg vorbei an der O-Line der Falcons und sackte Cousins, was nicht nur zu einem Raumverlust von sieben Yards, sondern auch zu einem Ballverlust durch den Signal Caller führte. Nur aufgrund eines defensiven Offsides von Watt konnten die Falcons die Oberhand behalten. Aus der Strafe resultierte ein neues First Down, was endlich zum ersten Scoring Drive des Teams führte und für Jubel auf den Tribünen im Stadion und vor den Fernsehern sorgte. Denn gleich im ersten Spielzug entkam Cousins dem Druck der Defense der Steelers, lief nach links und fand Tight End Kyle Pitts in der Endzone in der Nähe des vorderen linken Pylons. Touchdown – Führung – Erleichterung.

Nach dem Touchdown waren noch etwa 30 Sekunden bis zur Halbzeit auf der Uhr. Alles deutete drauf hin, dass Atlanta mit einer Führung von vier Punkten in die Kabine gehen sollte. Ein Big Play von Wide Receiver George Pickens brachte die Steelers jedoch in Field-Goal-Reichweite und Boswell war aus 44 Yards erfolgreich, sodass die Falcons letzten Endes nur mit 10:9-Führung in die Umkleidekabinen gehen konnten.

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Scene setters before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Scene setters before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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A wide view of the stadium before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons long snapper Liam McCullough #49 warms up before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London #5 warms up before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Matthew Judon #15 during warm ups before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge #12 warms up before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III #3 in the locker room before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 in the locker room before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Kyle Hinton #68 in the locker room before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 walks out of the locker room before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker DeAngelo Malone #51 walks out of the locker room before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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The Atlanta Falcons take the field during warm ups before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III #3 during warm ups before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson #7 during warm ups before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 huddles before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dee Alford #20 during warm ups before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 warms up before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Fans before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Kathryn Skeean/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons guard Chris Lindstrom #63, Atlanta Falcons tackle Kaleb McGary #76 and Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Ryan Neuzil #64 during warm ups before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier #25 during warm ups before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Freddie Falcon jumps from the roof before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Kathryn Skeean/Atlanta Falcons)

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Freddie Falcon zip lines from the roof before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons mascot Freddie Falcon prior to the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris walks out before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 in the tunnel before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts #8 walks out before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons players run out beore the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London #5 runs out of the tunnel before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts #8 runs out of the tunnel before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London #5 runs out prior to the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 runs out prior to the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 runs out before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London #5 runs out before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Train Horn Puller and Former Atlanta Falcons Defensive Lineman John Abraham before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Kathryn Skeean/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris on the sideline before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell #24 during the National Anthem before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 during the National Anthem before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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The Coin Toss before the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier #25 rushes during the first quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson #7 runs through a defender during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo #6 kicks a field goal during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 throws the ball during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo #6 scores a field goal during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson #7 runs by a defender during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson #7 runs with the ball during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts #8 during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier #25 carries the ball during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson #7 rushes during the first quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Drake London #5 runs after a catch during the first quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons #31 during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 reacts during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons #31 celebrates during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons cornerback Mike Hughes #21 makes a tackle during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons #31 and Atlanta Falcons cornerback Mike Hughes #21 celebrate during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Matthew Judon #15 during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Troy Andersen #44 makes a tackle during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Matthew Judon #15 lines up during the first quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III #3 makes a tackle during the first quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell #24 defends during the first quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 looks to pass during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III #34 makes a catch during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 and the Atlanta Falcons offense before a play during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 passes the ball during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III #34 carries the ball during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 huddles with the team during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 prepares to throw during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts #8 scores a touchdown during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 and Atlanta Falcons offensive lineman Drew Dalman #67 celebrate a touchdown during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Bee Trofort-Wilson/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 celebrates a touchdown during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts #8 celebrates a touchdown during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Kathryn Skeean/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 sacks Justin Fields during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Kathryn Skeean/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 makes a sack during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 celebrates a sack on Justin Fields during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Kathryn Skeean/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 celebrates after a sack during the third quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson #7 rushes during the third quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 directs the offense during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Kathryn Skeean/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell #24 makes a tackle during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Kathryn Skeean/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons #31 reacts during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons offense huddles before a play during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III #3 and Atlanta Falcons defensive back Clark Phillips III #22 during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 throws a pass during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris on the sideline during the third quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud III #34 reacts after a first down catch during the third quarter of the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts #8 runs with the ball during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons linebacker Kaden Elliss #55 makes a tackle during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons inside linebacker Nate Landman #53 reacts during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 hands the ball to Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson #7 during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons #31 and Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 make a tackle during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons #31 makes a tackle during the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 during the quarterbacks handshake after the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins #18 after the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett #97 after the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson #7 after the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons safety Justin Simmons #31 after the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. #9 after the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Jay Bendlin/Atlanta Falcons)

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Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Lorenzo Carter #0 after the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by Shanna Lockwood/Atlanta Falcons)

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Players pray after the Week 1 Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, September 8, 2024. (Photo by AJ Reynolds/Atlanta Falcons)

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HALBZEIT: Steelers 9, Falcons 10

Viertel

Die Steelers starteten mit Ballbesitz in die zweite Halbzeit. Dabei sorge die Defensive der Falcons dafür, dass die Steelers nach drei erfolglosen Versuchen zu einem Punt gezwungen wurden, denn Defensive Tackle Grady Jarrett konnte im dritten Versuch zu Justin Fields durchdringen und ihn zu Boden bringen. Der damit verbundene Raumverlust von 15 Yards zwang die Steelers letzten Endes zum Punt.

Die Offense der Falcons konnte im Anschluss jedoch nicht an die Vorleistungen des vorausgegangenen offensiven Drives anknüpfen. Zwar bewegte Running Back Bijan Robinson den Ball mit vier aufeinanderfolgenden Carries für 19 Yards gut auf dem Boden, doch dann traf der Snap von Center Drew Dalman Tight End Ross Dwelley, als dieser sich quer durch die Formation bewegte. Ein gefundenes Fressen für Linebacker T.J. Watt, der den Fumble für sich und die Steelers erobern konnte. Diese konnten den Turnover allerdings erneut nicht in einen Touchdown verwandeln. Sie schafften es bis zur 38-Yard-Linie der Falcons, wo Boswell ein Field Goal für 56 Yards erzielte. Damit lag Pittsburgh acht Minuten vor Ende des Viertels mit zwei Punkten Vorsprung (12:10) vor Atlanta in Führung.

Im nächsten Drive der Falcons musste Cousins gleich zwei Sacks einstecken. Während eines dritten Downs an der 28-Yard-Linie von Atlanta wurde er von Watt für einen Verlust von neun Yards gesackt und fumbelte dabei den Ball. Right Tackle Kaleb McGary sprang auf den losen Ball. Durch zwei Flaggen auf dem Spielfeld wurde das Play jedoch annuliert. Während eines weiteren zweiten Downs an der 30-Yard-Linie von Atlanta wurde der Signal Caller wiederholt für einen Verlust von neun Yards gesackt, dieses Mal von Pittsburghs Defensive Tackle Montravius Adams Sr. Die Falcons waren nicht in der Lage, einen 4-Yard-Pass zu Tight End Charlie Woerner zu verwandeln und mussten daraufhin punten.

Die Steelers antworteten mit einem weiteren Field Goal und bauten ihre Führung auf fünf Punkte (15:10) aus. Boswell versenkte 25 Sekunden vor dem Ende des dritten Viertels ein Field Goal über 40 Yards.

ENDE 3. VIERTEL: Steelers 15, Falcons 10

Viertel

Nun war es an den Falcons, ein Statement zu setzen. Die Offense konnte den Ball jedoch nicht für Punkte über das Feld bewegen. Atlanta musste bereits kurz nach Beginn des letzten Viertels punten und den Steelers erneut den Angriff überlassen. Pittsburgh nutze diese Chance und nahm insgesamt sieben Minuten und 14 Sekunden von der Uhr, um von seiner 22-Yard-Linie bis zu Atlantas 6-Yard-Linie vorzudringen. Hier fand der Drive der Steelers dann sein jähes Ende, als Inside Linebacker Nate Landman Quarterback Justin Fields bei einem 4th-and-1 an der Line of Scrimmage stoppen konnte und so einen Turnover on Downs erzwang.

Der sich daran anschließende Drive der Falcons, den diese dringend zur Punktejagd hätten nutzen müssen, endete bereits nach drei Versuchen, ebenso wie der darauffolgende Drive der Steelers.

Die letzte große Chance der Falcons, die Führung kurz vor Ende des Spiels zurückzuerobern, endete damit, dass Cousins zum zweiten Mal in diesem Spiel intercepted wurde. Donte Jackson, der schon zuvor den Fast-Pick hatte, schnappe sich den Ball, der für Wide Receiver Ray-Ray McCloud bestimmt war, und trug ihn für insgesamt 49 Yards über das Feld zurück bis an Atlantas 18-Yard-Linie. Dort gossen die Steelers ihren Sieg durch ein Field Goal von 25 Yards durch Boswell in Zement.

Die Falcons versuchten, von ihrer 30-Yard-Linie aus einen 28-Sekunden-Versuch zu starten, um das Spiel wenigstens in die Overtime retten zu können, was ihnen aber nicht gelang. Nach einem 34-Yard-Abschluss zwischen Cousins und McCloud, machte Watt das späte Comeback der Falcons durch einen weiteren Sack zunichte, sodass diese sich letztlich mit einem 18:10 geschlagen geben mussten.

ENDSTAND: Steelers 18, Falcons 10

In seinem Debüt bei den Falcons brachte Cousins 16 von 26 Pässen für 155 Yards, zwei Interceptions und einen Touchdown an. Während des Spiels wurde er zweimal gesackt.

Fields, der sein Debüt für die Steelers gab, brachte 17 seiner 23 Pässe für 156 Yards an. Außerdem lief er den Ball 14-mal für 57 Yards und wurde zweimal gesackt.

In der Nacht von Montag auf Dienstag (16. September 2024, 2:15 Uhr) müssen die Falcons nunmehr nach Philadelphia zu den Eagles reisen. Head Coach Raheem Morris sieht dem Spiel trotz des wenig zufriedenstellenden Auftakts der Falcons aufgrund der zusätzlichen Vorbereitungszeit gelassen entgegen: "Darüber müssen wir uns Montag Gedanken machen. Wir haben extra Zeit, um uns darauf vorzubereiten. Wir haben die zusätzliche Zeit, um uns das anzusehen. Was Kirk angeht, so wissen wir, dass er besser spielen muss, daran besteht kein Zweifel. Ich freue mich darauf, dass er das tut. Er hat lange Zeit in der Liga gespielt. Ich freue mich darauf, dass er sich von einem harten Spiel und einem harten Auftritt erholt. Darüber mache ich mir keine allzu großen Sorgen."