CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- A few thoughts on the Atlanta Falcons' 19-17 win over the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.
What it means: The Falcons blew a double-digit lead but held on thanks to a field goal by Matt Bryant and a missed field goal (wide left) by Carolina's Graham Gano. As a result, a Falcons team that dropped five straight games at one point just took over first place in the NFC South at 4-6, following a loss by New Orleans against the Bengals. The Falcons beat the Saints in the season opener, paving the way for them to move up in the standings.
Stock watch: Give the defense credit for coming up with a few key turnovers, including interceptions by Desmond Trufant and Kemal Ishmael. Also give Harry Douglas credit for making a few key catches on the drive that led to the go-ahead field goal. He was clutch.
Reaching a milestone: With an 11-yard catch in the fourth quarter, Roddy White surpassed 10,000 career receiving yards. White finished with eight catches for 75 yards.
Game ball: I'm giving it to Bryant for the second consecutive week. He always shows poise under pressure and delivered again with four field goals, including the game-deciding 44-yarder. I also have to give rookie Ra'Shede Hageman a vote for the game ball after he blocked Gano's 63-yard field goal attempt to end the game.
What's next: The Falcons have a tough set of games upcoming, but at least they'll play three of the next four at the Georgia Dome after playing the past four away from home. The first opponent is the surprising Cleveland Browns (6-4) next Sunday.
