Falcons Soar Past Cardinals 26-19 in Week 16 Victory

The Atlanta Falcons (5-8) traveled to Arizona looking to build momentum after their stunning comeback win over Tampa Bay, while the Cardinals (3-11) hoped to snap their six-game losing streak and find bright spots in a disappointing season.

First Quarter: Cardinals Strike First

Arizona got off to a hot start when quarterback Jacoby Brissett found wide receiver Michael Wilson for a spectacular 32-yard touchdown pass. The play was initially ruled incomplete, but after a successful challenge by the Cardinals, Wilson was credited with an amazing catch that gave Arizona a 7-0 lead. The Falcons answered back with a solid drive that ended in a 49-yard field goal by kicker Gonzalez, cutting the deficit to 7-3 after the first quarter.

Second Quarter: Offensive Explosion

The second quarter turned into a scoring festival! Arizona extended their lead with a 51-yard field goal, making it 10-3. But then Bijan Robinson took over for Atlanta. The superstar running back caught a beautiful 41-yard pass from Kirk Cousins, showing off his incredible receiving skills. Robinson then punched it in from 13 yards out for his first touchdown of the game, tying the score 10-10.

Arizona methodically drove down the field with a long drive featuring multiple carries by running back Kiner and key completions to tight end Trey McBride. However, they had to settle for another field goal, taking a 13-10 lead. The Falcons responded with authority as Cousins found Kyle Pitts for a 5-yard touchdown pass right before halftime. Although the extra point was blocked, Atlanta led 16-13 at the break.

Third Quarter: Field Goal Battle

The third quarter belonged to the kickers as both teams struggled to find the end zone. Atlanta added a 40-yard field goal to extend their lead to 19-13. Arizona had a golden opportunity to tie the game, but their 44-yard field goal attempt sailed wide right, keeping the Falcons ahead entering the final quarter.

Fourth Quarter: Falcons Pull Away

Atlanta put the game away early in the fourth quarter when Cousins scored on a 1-yard rushing touchdown, capping off a methodical drive. The veteran quarterback showed great determination, diving into the end zone to give the Falcons a 26-13 advantage.

Arizona tried to mount a comeback, but their efforts were hampered by a crucial fumble recovery by the Cardinals defense and some missed opportunities. The Cardinals did manage one more field goal to make it 26-16, but it wasn't enough. A late interception by Henderson sealed the victory for Atlanta.

Star Performances

Bijan Robinson continued his spectacular season with another dominant performance, rushing for 76 yards and adding 92 receiving yards with a touchdown. His 168 total yards from scrimmage proved once again why he's one of the NFL's most exciting young players.

Kyle Pitts added 57 receiving yards and a touchdown on seven catches, building on his recent hot streak. For Arizona, Michael Wilson provided a bright spot with 52 receiving yards and a touchdown, while Elijah Higgins led the team with 91 receiving yards on seven receptions.

Looking Ahead

This victory gives Atlanta (6-9) their second straight win and some positive momentum heading into the final week of the season. While their playoff hopes are mathematically eliminated, the Falcons are showing the type of execution that could carry into next year.

Arizona (3-12) continues to struggle, now on a seven-game losing streak. However, young players like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson are gaining valuable experience for the future.

Both teams will wrap up their 2025 seasons in Week 17 as they prepare for the offseason.