Falcons Survive Rams Comeback Attempt on Monday Night

ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Falcons held off a valiant comeback attempt by the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night. The Rams rallied from a 21-point deficit to tie the game at 24-24 in the 4th quarter, but ultimately fell to the Falcons, 27-24.

The Rams spent most of the season competing for the NFL’s best record, but now find themselves in third place in the NFC West, riding a two-game losing streak and locked into opening the playoffs on the road.

Bijan Robinson rushed for a franchise-record 195 yards, including a 93-yard touchdown run — the longest in Falcons history — and Zane Gonzalez kicked a 51-yard field goal with 21 seconds remaining as Atlanta (7-9) survived blowing two 21-point leads to secure its third straight win.

Jessie Bates III added a 34-yard interception return for a touchdown, helping the Falcons take a 21-0 lead at halftime and a 24-3 advantage early in the third quarter.

Matthew Stafford threw three interceptions but still managed to rally the Rams (11-5) to tie the game. Stafford’s second interception — one of two by rookie Xavier Watts — positioned the Falcons at their own 7-yard line. On the next play, Robinson broke free down the sideline for the longest run in the NFL this season.

The Rams entered the week leading the NFL in scoring and total offense, but were shut out in the first half. Stafford’s 27-yard touchdown pass to Terrance Ferguson late in the third quarter broke the drought. Los Angeles then cut the deficit to 24-17 when Jarred Verse blocked a 37-yard field goal and returned the loose ball 76 yards for the touchdown. Stafford then threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to Puka Nacua with 2:46 remaining, evened the score at 24, before the Falcons kicked the game-winning field goal.

Up next, the Rams host the Arizona Cardinals next Sunday in Los Angeles' home finale. The Rams are 6-1 at home this season. Atlanta closes out the season at home against the New Orleans Saints.