NFL Week 15 Game Recap: Carolina Panthers 9, Atlanta Falcons 7

The Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers went to battle in front of a raucous crowd of at least four figures, matching the fan energy with a lethargic 9-7 final that severely damaged Atlanta’s NFC South divisional chances after both New Orleans and Tampa Bay won in Week 15.

Offensive spotlight: Falcons tight ends Jonnu Smith and Kyle Pitts combined for five receptions and 98 yards. No other Falcons player eclipsed the 25-receiving-yard mark. Quarterback Desmond Ridder completed 12 of his 20 passes for 152 yards with an interception despite zero sacks taken.

Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard broke off a few explosive rushes, including multiple 20-plus-yard scampers.

Defensive spotlight: Falcons edge defender Ta'Quon Graham had a key sack in the game and the defense was not at all to blame for this ugly loss.

Panthers cornerback Jaycee Horn was a lockdown force all day long and made five solo tackles in the game. Falcons wide receivers were virtually erased from the gameplan.

Rookie spotlight: Falcons rookie running back Bijan Robinson fumbled deep in his own territory and finished with just 11 yards on seven carries. Rookie edge defender Zach Harrison got home for a sack, as well.

Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young’s box score may not be all that impressive, but he made several key plays that led to the win, evading pressure at times and not putting the ball in harm's way through the air. He finished 18-of-24 for 170 yards, with a respectable 7.0 yards per attempt.

Box Score

Passing

Rushing

Receiving