Ladies and gentleman, glorious football is now finally underway at Soldier Field. If the Falcons want to fulfill their high expectations for this season, it all starts here against the Chicago Bears in what should be a great game.
The Bears started off at their 23-yard line following a strange kickoff penalty due to an illegal formation, and right off the bat the Falcons linebackers were getting their hats on the football almost immediately. However on third-and-seven, the Bears O-line provided Jay Cutler the time he needed to connect with Roy Williams on a 23-yard pass.
Brent Grimes did get his hands on an underthrown pass by Cutler, but Thomas DeCoud couldn't reel in the tipped pass that practically fell into his hands. A 23-yard catch n' run by Matt Forte would result in another Bears third-down conversion. However, in typical "bend-but-don't-break" fashion the Falcons defense planted their feet in the ground and was able to hold the Bears to a field goal, making it 3-0 Bears.
The much-anticipated Falcons offense then finally took the field, and at first glance this game has featured exactly what we've come to expect of Mike Mularkey's group: a heavy dose of Michael Turner and a some short, controlled pass plays. Ryan and company ran the no-huddle and marched down the field in their methodical fashion.
Then on third down, Ryan connected with Julio Jones for his first career reception, good for three yards. However, the Bears D was all over it and the Falcons were forced to kick a field goal. Matt Bryant just got it inside the uprights on a 48-yard field goal, and the game is now tied at 3-3. Good to see the Falcons at least come away with some points there. Stay tuned, folks.
For more on the Falcons, check out The Falcoholic. For more on the Bears, check out Windy City Gridiron