It’s only six quarters into the season, but the Falcons may finally have built a defense. Atlanta registered five sacks in the first half against Minnesota. Rookie edge rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. each their first, a half in Pearce’s case. Second-year defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus had 1.5 and his draft-mate Ruke Orhorhoro had a half sack. Veteran free agent edge rusher Leonard Floyd had his first sack as a Falcon. Zach Harrison was also credited with half a sack. Atlanta has only had more than five sacks in one game since the 2019 season.
On top of that, rookie defensive back Billy Bowman had his first career interception, a spectacular diving catch while laying on the top of Minnesota wide receiver Adam Thielen. That play set up the Falcons’ third field goal of the half.