NFL Week 3 Game Recap: Detroit Lions 20, Atlanta Falcons 6

The Detroit Lions became the first team to beat the Atlanta Falcons this season, coming away with a 20-6 victory in Week 3. Both teams move to 2-1 after this game.

Offensive spotlight: Jared Goff completed 22 of his 33 passes for 243 yards, a touchdown and an interception. Goff leaned heavily on his two top options, Amon-Ra St. Brown and rookie tight end Sam LaPorta, who combined for 77% of the team’s receiving yards.

Defensive spotlight: The Lions’ defense came up with seven sacks on Desmond Ridder, putting him under constant pressure and forcing just a 55% completion rate for the Falcons’ passing offense on the day. Aidan Hutchinson posted his first two sacks of the season late in a strong performance in which he recorded an unofficial 28% pass-rush win rate.

Falcons free agent acquisition Jessie Bates continued his hot start to the season with another interception, giving him three in as many games. Bates led the team with 11 total tackles on the day, as well.

Rookie spotlight: Lions’ tight end Sam LaPorta had the biggest game of his young career, hauling in eight receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown. LaPorta earned 11 targets and has been a key option in the Lions’ passing game through their first two games. He found his way into the end zone for the first time in his career in this contest.

First @NFL TD for @Samlaporta!#ATLvsDET |📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/lfDQZsKMZ8

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 24, 2023

Box Score

Passing

Rushing

Receiving