South Atlanta News

On Friday, the Atlanta Falcons debuted their 2024 game-day uniforms in a preseason match against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Despite most starters sitting out, the Falcons faced a 20-13 loss. Here are five key takeaways from the game.

**Key Injuries**

Two defensive players for the Falcons sustained injuries in the first half. Safety DeMarcco Hellams was carted off during the first quarter after an injury on a second-and-14 play. Outside linebacker Bralen Trice left in the second quarter with assistance from trainers following an incomplete pass play.

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris commented, "Obviously we had the two injuries in that game that I know about right now that felt bad. I'll have a better feel (Saturday) when we get a chance to let the doctors see those guys."

**Secondary Stars**

With cornerbacks A.J. Terrell and Mike Hughes sitting out, Kevin King and Antonio Hamilton Sr. took center stage. King forced a fumble and intercepted a pass intended for Malik Washington, leading to a Falcons touchdown.

"They ran the play that we had talked about," King said. "I was trying to get to the house, but hey, it's all good."

Hamilton contributed with consistent performance, including breaking up passes and making tackles.

**Connection Between Rookies**

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta's first-round draft pick, connected multiple times with wide receiver Casey Washington during his debut. Penix completed 9 of 16 passes for 104 yards before being replaced by Taylor Heinicke midway through the second quarter.

"Throughout OTAs, training camp or whatever it was... every time we got reps together we found something between us," Washington noted.

**Special Teams Performance**

The NFL's new kickoff rules were tested as Carlos Washington and Micah Abernathy served as returners for Atlanta. The team struggled with fielding kickoffs cleanly but showed promise in coverage plays led by outside linebacker DeAngelo Malone.

"I think it's exactly what we wanted from the fan standpoint," Morris said regarding special teams' performance.

**Running Game Struggles**

Atlanta's running game faltered without starting offensive linemen and running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. Carlos Washington Jr., who scored Atlanta’s only touchdown, led with 15 attempts for 23 yards while Jase McClellan produced 30 yards on nine carries.

"We left some plays out there," Washington admitted. "But overall, I think it was a good game."

The preseason offers opportunities for improvement as both teams continue preparations for the regular season.

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