The Chargers scored a touchdown on their opening drive on Saturday night, something they didn’t do once in 2008.
Chargers QB Philip Rivers led another touchdown drive before departing and finished 10-of-15 for 185 yards for the night.
Rivers had to convert several third-and-long situations because the Chargers offensive line struggled with both penalties and pass protection.
Chargers rookie LB Larry English, playing for the first time in the preseason, nearly sacked Falcons QB Matt Ryan but couldn’t wrap him up.
The Chargers used screen passes effectively all night, including a 48-yard touchdown catch-and-run by RB Michael Bennett.
Falcons coach Mike Smith wasn’t happy with the way his first-team defense played in allowing 265 yards passing in the first half.
Said Falcons LB Mike Peterson, “It’s preseason. That’s where you iron out all of the
wrinkles. You can make mistakes, and we’ll fix them now. When it’s Week One,
we can play fast and be used to each other.”
Falcons QB Matt Ryan completed 14-of-20 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown.
QB Chris Redman played well in relief of Ryan and cemented his role as the Falcons’ backup quarterback.
Falcons WR Marty Booker caught six passes for 62 yards to lead the team on Saturday.
