For the first time since 2012, the Falcons are 4-0.

Devonta Freeman rushed for three touchdowns for the second consecutive week, Matt Ryan completed 19 of 27 passes and the defense held Houston to 428 yards from scrimmage to give Atlanta a 48-21 victory over the Texans. Dan Quinn remains undefeated as head coach.

The Falcons jumped out to a 28-0 lead in the first half, when they racked up 216 net yards compared to Houston's 130. Atlanta forced three turnovers in the opening 30 minutes—one pick, two fumbles—which prevented the Texans from gaining any semblance of momentum. Jonathan Babineaux hauled in the interception; Desmond Trufant picked up both loose balls and ran the first one back 24 yards for a touchdown.

Turnovers were one of many problems for Houston's offense. Ryan Mallett struggled at QB (12 of 27, 150 passing yards, 1 INT), and the Falcons allowed just 54 total rushing yards—a 3.2 yards per carry average. The Texans failed to register a point against Atlanta's first-team D but managed a trio of touchdowns in the fourth to avoid a shutout.

Freeman, who became the featured RB when Tevin Coleman hurt his ribs versus the Giants, stole the show yet again. The second-year pro notched 149 all-purpose yards—68 on the ground, 81 through the air—and allowed coordinator Kyle Shanahan to utilize a balanced attack.

Freeman's production, along with a relentless defense, helped Atlanta get off to the kind of start it needed to dominate. The Falcons have done a tremendous job finishing of late; by establishing themselves early on, they were able to find a rhythm and cruise to an easy win. Good teams take care of the opponents they're supposed to beat, and that's exactly what Quinn and Co. accomplished on Sunday.

The Falcons will attempt to win their fifth straight game next week when Washington visits the Georgia Dome. Opening kickoff is scheduled for Oct. 11 at 1 p.m.