ATLANTA -- A few thoughts on the Atlanta Falcons' 27-20 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday at the Georgia Dome:
What it means: The Falcons dropped to 5-9 overall but still have a shot at the playoffs. They have to win their last two games against the Saints and Panthers, the same scenario they faced going into Sunday's game. So, in essence, losing to the Steelers didn't matter. But these last two games mean everything if the Falcons hope to salvage the season, win the NFC South and host a first-round playoff game.
Stock watch: You have to give the defense a little credit for showing up in this game. Defensive coordinator Mike Nolan's crew had some hiccups, like a 44-yard catch-and-run surrendered to running back Le'Veon Bell, an illegal contact penalty by Desmond Trufant that kept a Steelers drive alive, and a 25-yard pass play from Ben Roethlisberger to Heath Miller on third-and-1 that essentially clinched the game. But the defense also came up with some key third-down stops and made the Steelers settle for a couple of field goals when they appeared destined to score touchdowns. Nose tackle Paul Soliai and linebacker Prince Shembo combined on a sack, and Tyson Jackson batted down a pass. Kroy Biermann also had moments when he brought solid pressure toward Roethlisberger. Again, the defense wasn't dominant, but it was good enough to put the Falcons in position to win. The offense simply couldn't close the deal. Matt Ryan's pick-six early in the second quarter really hurt.
Injury update: Julio Jones was held out of Sunday's game with a hip injury. Although Falcons coach Mike Smith was optimistic about Jones' status leading into the game, Smith probably knew all along the best approach would be to rest Jones for the final two games. It will be interesting to see if Jones makes a full recovery in time to have an impact performance against the Saints next week. The Falcons also hoped to get starting strong safety William Moore (foot), starting cornerback Robert Alford (wrist) and starting right guard Jon Asamoah (back) back from injuries.
Game ball: Roddy White didn't have a spectacular performance, but he deserves recognition for reaching a milestone. His 4-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter made him the Falcons' all-time touchdown leader with his 62nd career score, surpassing former running back Michael Turner. White finished Sunday's game with seven catches for 58 yards. Harry Douglas was a close second for game-ball honors with 10 catches for 131 yards in Sunday's game.
Next up: The Falcons travel to New Orleans for their most important game of the season against the rival Saints, whom they beat 37-34 in overtime in the season opener.
