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2021 NFL Power Rankings, Week 5: Cowboys make statement, Cardinals take the top spot

By Randy Gurzi

Oct 3, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals strong safety Budda Baker (3) recovers the fumble against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals strong safety Budda Baker (3) recovers the fumble against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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2021 NFL Power Rankings
Oct 3, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) runs the ball against the Washington Football Team in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

Previous: 25th. Atlanta Falcons. 27. team. 44. .

After being blown out in both Week 1 and Week 2, the Atlanta Falcons scored their first win of the season last week over the New York Giants. Head coach Arthur Smith was able to secure his first victory and was looking for more as they faced the Washington Football Team in Week 4.

Atlanta was also facing an NFC East team for the third time in four games as they lost to the Eagles in Week 1 and had their Giants game in Week 3. For a while, it appeared they were going to be able to move to 2-1 against that division as they took an early 10-0 lead and then had a 17-13 lead at the half.

Washington kept fighting back but the Falcons still scored early in the fourth quarter to again go on top, this time with a score of 30-22. However, the Football Team scored to pull within two and the Falcons answered with a three-and-out which allowed Taylor Heinicke to hit J.D. McKissic for a 30-yard touchdown that proved to be a game-winner.

Some positives from the game included Cordarrelle Patterson having a career day with 116 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns. Matt Ryan also had a big day with four touchdown passes. As good as that was for them to see, the defense continues to be a major issue as they have now given up 128 points in four games.

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