14-1 is an impressive record by any standard, just not the one the Panthers were hoping to have after week 16.
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Early it looked like another easy win. Cam Newton drives the team down on their first touch and runs into the end zone for a 7-0 lead. After a fumble and two drops it looked like the Panthers would get the ball right back, but Charles Tillman was called for a personal foul giving the Falcons new life. With it, Atlanta converted four more third downs and answered.
Late in the 2nd quarter the Newton took a sack on 2nd and one that knocked Carolina out of field goal range. Instead of a chance to lead at the half, it was a tie game. A far cry from the 28-0 lead the Panthers enjoyed at the half in Charlotte.
After a Panthers field goal in the 3rd, Atlanta converted its 7th 3rd down on a ridiculous completion to Julio Jones who out-jumped linebacker Luke Kuechly after safety Kurt Coleman had fallen down. Falcons took a 14-10 lead at that point. Unlike Odell Beckham Jr. last week, Julio focused on production and touched the Panthers with 9 catches and 178 yards. Career highs against the Panthers.
So, a unique afternoon in what has been a magical season. Still a lot to play for. Time to regroup and Keep Pounding.