Updated · The Atlanta Journal Constitution · Sep 21
Falcons Open Home Schedule With 34-3 Loss as Fans Boo Cooper Rush
Updated
Updated · The Atlanta Journal Constitution · Sep 21
Falcons Open Home Schedule With 34-3 Loss as Fans Boo Cooper Rush
3 articles · Updated · The Atlanta Journal Constitution · Sep 21
Summary
Atlanta’s home opener unraveled immediately when Cooper Rush fumbled on the first play, and Carolina turned the takeaway into a touchdown in a 34-3 rout.
Two possessions after fans had chanted “Coooop,” boos rained down on Rush and the Falcons as the offense kept stalling and turnovers mounted.
Coach Kevin Stefanski called the performance disappointing, while players said the crowd’s frustration was understandable after another lopsided defeat.
The loss deepened Atlanta’s quarterback crisis: Rush was starting only because Michael Penix Jr. is still not ready after injuries, and the Falcons are now 0-2.
For a franchise already mired in a long playoff drought, the blowout sharpened questions about whether Atlanta can get competent quarterback play soon enough to stay competitive.