Despite 127 rushing yards from LaRod Stephens-Howling and five defensive interceptions of Matt Ryan, the Arizona Cardinals dropped a tough 23-19 decision to the Atlanta Falcons Sunday afternoon in the Georgia Dome.
The loss was the sixth in a row for the fading Red Birds (4-6), their second six-game losing streak in as many years. This is a game they could have won.
Despite their very sloppy play, the Falcons improved to 9-1.
The Cards led 19-16 after Jay Feely's fourth field goal of the game before Atlanta finally got its act together midway through the final quarter. The Falcons drove 70 yards in just seven plays to take the lead for good with 6:40 remaining on Michael Turner's one-yard scoring blast.
According to STATS LLC, Ryan became the first quarterback since Green Bay's Bart Starr in 1967 to win a game despite throwing five interceptions with no touchdowns. A truly dubious distinction but he'll take the victory any day. His previous high interception total for a game was three.
Head coach Ken Whisenhunt replaced starting quarterback John Skelton (two for seven, six yards) with rookie Ryan Lindley in the second quarter. It didn't help much because the San Diego State product was just nine for 20 for a meager 64 yards. He was sacked three times.
Larry Fitzgerald was held to just one reception for 11 yards.
Arizona (4-6) 13 3 0 3 – 19
Atlanta (9-1) 0 16 0 7 - 23
Ar – Stephens-Howling 3 run (Feely kick)
Ar – Feely 48 field goal
Ar – Feely 28 field goal
At – Bryant 51 field goal
At – Babineaux 15 fumble return (Bryant kick)
At – Bryant 28 field goal
Ar – Feely 38 field goal
At- Bryant 48 field goal
Ar – Feely 27 field goal
At – Turner 1 run (Bryant kick)
Dan Benton
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