The Atlanta Falcons passed the ball 60 times in a losing effort to the Cincinnati Bengals , 24-19, and the Cleveland Browns offense blew up for a 35-10 victory over the Green Bay Packers in the first set of games for the second week of the preseason.
NFL Preseason Scores: Bengals Outlast Falcons, Browns Surprise Packers
Matt Ryan was efficient for the Falcons throughout the night, completing 18-of-21 passes while his backups, Dominique Davis and Chris Redman, combined for 21-of-36 passing for 227 yards. Unfortunately for Falcons fans, it wasn't enough as the Bengals held on for a 24-19 victory. Highlights of the game from Atlanta's side include this picture perfect touchdown reception from Andy Dalton to A.J. Green. From the Bengals side, the notable part of the game came in the form of injuries to Jermaine Gresham and Vontaze Burfict.
As expected the Packers didn't keep Aaron Rodgers in very long but he was played long enough to throw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Jordy Nelson. Rodgers' backup, Graham Harrell, struggled throughout the night completing 50 percent of his passes for just 100 yards. The Packers are quickly learning that moving into the regular season with Harrell as Rodgers' backup may not be the best decision. On the Browns' side, Brandon Weeden completed 12-of-20 passes and looked sharp throughout the night, save a pair of dropped interceptions from the Packers defense. Trent Richardson didn't play as he continues to rehab from knee surgery but his replacement, Montario Hardesty, played well averaging nearly four yards per carry on the night.
It’s just the preseason but all four teams were able to give their young players valuable experience as they finish off the first half of a month long preseason.
Check out SB Nation’s StoryStream from Thursday night’s games for more highlights.
For more on the Bengals and Falcons game, visit Cincy Jungle and The Falcoholic. For more on the Browns and Packers game, visit Dawgs By Nature and Acme Packing Company.
See More:
