We don’t really have a lot to add to the headline. But anytime a quarterback throws 42 passes in a half, we have to write a post about it.
Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan completed 22-of-42 passes for 220 yards, one touchdown, and an interception on Saturday. Fearing that Ryan’s arm might fall off, the Falcons took Ryan out at halftime against Pittsburgh.
Atlanta wasn’t very efficient Saturday, but it has been interesting to see them so aggressive throwing the ball in the preseason. There have been a lot more shotgun formations with three or four receivers. Julio Jones and a healthier Harry Douglas will let Atlanta transform their offensive identity this year.
Pittsburgh led 24-16 at halftime on the way to 34-16 win.
UPDATE: The NFL tells us the most passes in a first half last year was 30 by Peyton Manning against the Texans.