Second quarter swings the game
Atlanta lost 34-17 to Cincinnati at Santiago Bernabéu in Week 9, surrendering a first-quarter lead as the Bengals took control with a 17-0 second quarter. The Falcons led 10-7 after the opening period but entered halftime trailing 24-10. Both teams scored seven points in the third quarter, and Cincinnati added the only three points of the fourth. Atlanta went scoreless in two quarters and could not close the gap created before halftime. The loss dropped the Falcons to 3-6 and marked their second consecutive defeat following a 16-0 loss at Tampa Bay. Cincinnati improved to 6-2 with its third straight victory.
Burrow and Chase drive Cincinnati
Joe Burrow completed 24 of 29 passes for 271 yards and three touchdowns, adding a rushing touchdown on three carries for seven yards. His efficiency contrasted with an Atlanta passing game that finished with 162 yards. Ja’Marr Chase caught 10 of his 12 targets for 155 yards and a touchdown. Tee Higgins added five receptions on six targets for 32 yards, turning two of those catches into touchdowns. Chase Brown contributed 57 rushing yards on nine carries and caught all three of his targets for another 18 yards.
Robinson leads Atlanta’s production
Bijan Robinson gave the Falcons 100 rushing yards and a touchdown on 19 carries, plus six catches for 47 yards on seven targets. His 147 yards from scrimmage provided Atlanta’s strongest individual offensive performance. Michael Penix Jr. completed 20 of 31 passes for 162 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He also gained 50 yards on three carries. Drake London caught all five of his targets for 68 yards, while Charlie Woerner scored Atlanta’s receiving touchdown on a one-yard catch. For fantasy managers, Robinson’s 26.7 PPR points stood out despite the defeat. Chase led the game with 31.5, followed by Burrow at 29.5. Higgins delivered 20.2, while London finished with 11.8 and Kyle Pitts Sr. had 5.3.
Chiefs next for Falcons
Atlanta hosts the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 10 on November 15 at 1 p.m. ET. Cincinnati returns home to face the Pittsburgh Steelers that night at 8:20 p.m. ET.