Going Gonzo
Is there seriously nothing tight end Tony Gonzalez can't do? Play after amazing play, game after incredible game, Gonzalez brings it. Sunday was no different. Gonzalez got his game started with a 1-yard touchdown reception that put him in sole possession of ninth place in the NFL's all-time TD receptions category with 92 for his fantastic career. Later in the game, Gonzalez halted momentum gained by the Seahawks with a one-handed catch that drew "oohs" and "ahhs" from those in the press box and in CenturyLink seats.
Tough as Nails
Kicker Matt Bryant has a particular routine he follows before each game. Prior to Sunday's game, as he was practicing 45-to-50-yarders — and nailing them — Bryant was interrupted as the Seahawks Sea Gals (cheerleaders) began marching toward him during a dance routine that pretty much took up most of the field. Whether Bryant got all his kicks in with the delay is unclear, but almost being trampled by 40 women clad in hot pink didn't faze him — as nothing usually does. Bryant was automatic Sunday, 3-for-3 on field goals with a longest of 50 — his longest on the road of his career — and hasn't missed a kick since last year at some point.
Scorched Earth
Michael Turner's contributions this year have mostly been mere footnotes — overshadowed by a focus on other attributes and shortcomings of the Falcons' offense. On Sunday against Seattle, Turner didn't put up gaudy numbers, but he burned his way to two rushing touchdowns, which helped the Falcons jump out to an impressive lead to get things going. Sunday's performance marked the 10th time in his career Turner has scored two or more touchdowns in a game.
Julio Breaks Out
With Roddy White coming into Sunday's game with a thigh injury, the offensive spotlight fell on Julio Jones at the WR position. White played in Sunday's game, but the Falcons targeted him less, which may or may not have anything to do with White's thigh. Jones stepped up and made some real big plays. He was clutch early on, converting his first three passes for first downs on third down. He went over 100 yards receiving for the second straight time in his young career.
Gimmie the Ball
The Falcons defense has been stingy when it comes to the football. They don't like to share. So much so, in fact, that the Falcons have the longest active streak of forcing at least one turnover in a game in the NFL. That streak now stands at 23 games after the Falcons forced two interceptions in Sunday's game against Seattle.
