The Atlanta Falcons bounced back in a big way Saturday afternoon, dominating the Indianapolis Colts 34-6 at Lucas Oil Stadium in their second preseason game.
After being blown out by the Denver Broncos in their preseason opener, Atlanta controlled this game from the opening whistle, building a 10-6 lead after the first quarter before scoring 24 unanswered points the rest of the way. The Falcons finished with 461 total yards compared to just 164 for Indianapolis and controlled the clock for nearly 39 minutes.
The biggest story came from the quarterback room, where Cooper Rush and Jack Strand both delivered strong performances. Rush completed 10 of 11 passes for 86 yards, while Strand completed 12 of 17 attempts for 212 yards and a touchdown. Strand also added a rushing touchdown, giving the rookie an impressive showing as he continues to compete for a roster spot. With Michael Penix Jr. being cleared to practice, according to head coach Kevin Stefanski following the game, and Tua Tagovailoa remaining atop the team’s quarterback picture, Strand’s performance gives Atlanta another intriguing option in the room.
The Falcons’ running game also produced several standout performances. Former Colts running back Tyler Goodson provided the game’s first touchdown for Atlanta, breaking loose for a 49-yard scoring run in the first quarter. Cash Jones was another major contributor, finishing with 103 total rushing yards and showcasing the explosiveness that has made him one of the more intriguing young backs on Atlanta’s roster. Nate Carter also contributed on the ground as the Falcons repeatedly found running room against Indianapolis.
Defensively, Atlanta’s depth players responded after a disappointing showing against Denver, consistently making life difficult for the Colts’ quarterbacks and forcing Indianapolis into repeated punts. The Falcons held Indianapolis without a touchdown and allowed only 164 total yards, while the offense continued to pile up points throughout the second half.
While preseason results ultimately don’t determine what happens once the regular season begins, the 34-6 victory provided Atlanta with plenty of positive developments particularly from Strand, Goodson, Jones and the team’s overall depth as the Falcons head toward their preseason finale.
Photo Courtesy: AP Photo/AJ Mast
