Falcons Edge Chargers in a Thrilling 31-28 Victory

ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Falcons (6-6) secured a crucial 31-28 win over the Los Angeles Chargers (3-9) in a nail-biting contest that kept their playoff hopes alive. Tyler Allgeier was the star for Atlanta, with two rushing touchdowns and a receiving score, while Kirk Cousins threw for 267 yards and two TDs.

Game Recap

The Falcons started strong with a 25-yard touchdown pass from Cousins to Drake London. The Chargers answered with a 21-yard touchdown reception from Justin Herbert to Joshua Palmer, tying the game at 7-7.

Atlanta gained momentum in the second quarter, with Younghoe Koo adding a field goal before Cousins hit Allgeier for a 24-yard touchdown pass. The Chargers kept it close with a touchdown pass to Quentin Johnston, but the Falcons extended their lead before halftime with Allgeier’s 6-yard rushing score, making it 24-14.

The second half saw the Chargers trying to claw back into the game, with Herbert finding D.J. Chark Jr. for a 22-yard touchdown with no time left in the game. Despite their late efforts, Allgeier’s 5-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter kept Atlanta ahead.

After the game, Herbert said, “We kept pushing, but we came up just short.” He finished the game with 338 passing yards, three touchdowns, and one interception.

For the Falcons, Cousins reflected on the win: “We made some key plays today, especially with Tyler and Drake stepping up. Felt great to execute. Next week against the Vikings is huge, and we’ll need to bring our best to keep this momentum going.”

Key Stats

Kirk Cousins led the way for Atlanta with 267 passing yards and two touchdowns, while Tyler Allgeier was the star, rushing for 129 yards and two scores while also catching a 24-yard touchdown. Drake London added 67 receiving yards and a score for the Falcons.

On the Chargers’ side, Justin Herbert had a big day, throwing for 338 yards and three touchdowns, despite one interception. Joshua Palmer and D.J. Chark Jr. both hauled in touchdown passes, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Falcons’ balanced attack.

Up Next

The Falcons head into a crucial Week 14 matchup against the struggling Minnesota Vikings, who are on a two-game losing streak. Meanwhile, the Chargers hit the road to face the AFC West-leading Kansas City Chiefs, looking to bounce back from another tough loss.