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Falcons defense shows up in preseason opener
All the buzz surrounding the Atlanta Falcons is on the offensive side of the ball, but the team made a statement defensively in their preseason opener vs the Miami Dolphins.
In the team’s 19-3 victory, the defense and special teams accounted for most of the scoring, but it was the team’s defense that stood out in the game. Yes, they weren’t facing the likes of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, but the Falcons secondary put their staple on the game, highlighted by a pick -6 by veteran defensive back Breon Borders who finished the game with five tackles, the interception and three passes defended.
Safety Lukas Denis added an interception in the game. The Boston College alum took advantage of a poor throw from Dolphins quarterback Skylar Thompson. Denis continued his strong camp with a solid performance in the game.
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Seventh-round pick DeMarcco Hellams made a strong statement in the game as to his place on the 53-man roster. The product out of Alabama continued his consistent play in training camp with an interception off Dolphins quarterback Mike White.
Again, the Falcons defense wasn’t going up against the Dolphins high-powered first team offense, but solid secondary play and even stronger red zone defense is something head coach Arthur Smith can build on as the Falcons look to be a factor in the NFC South.