NFL Insights: Falcons' Ups and Downs & Seahawks' Dominance

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Falcons Find Their Form While the Seahawks Dominate Kansas City

The 49ers were among the undefeated teams to fall, losing 29-20 to the Falcons. Atlanta has been difficult to read, looking incredible one week before struggling the next. Some of that inconsistency may stem from quarterback Michael Pennix still finding his footing, but Drake London was a force in this game.

The 49ers’ injuries at receiver have continued to stack up, making Mike Evans’ absence especially important. Brock Purdy had been playing at a high level with Evans as a security blanket, but the offense struggled to move the ball after Evans left the game against the Commanders. Christian McCaffrey also got banged up, further limiting the offense.

Atlanta has plenty of talent despite its inconsistency. Pennix remains relatively inexperienced, and there will be growing pains, but his raw skill set stands out. When he distributes the ball to weapons such as Drake London, Kyle Pitts and Bejon Robinson, the Falcons’ offense is a force to be reckoned with.

Jeff Ulbricht is also doing a fantastic job with Atlanta’s defense. The unit continues to generate sacks despite having what could be considered a no-name pass rush. Like Brian Flores, Ulbricht could attract interest from teams looking to conduct head coaching interviews.

Seattle’s defense delivered another striking result by dominating Kansas City between the twenties. The Seahawks’ victory was not necessarily surprising, but the way they controlled the game was. Mike McDonald’s plan was to take away Kenneth Walker and force Patrick Mahomes to beat them.

Mahomes was not necessarily bad, but this was the first time this season that he had to carry the team while still coming back from a major injury. The result showed how important Walker’s performance will be to the Chiefs moving forward. They need him playing at a high level for everything to work, at least until Mahomes gets his legs fully under him. Sam Darnold also played a little better.