The Falcons celebrated their first victory of the season Sunday 24-10 vs Carolina at home. The victory was a monumental one for several reasons, including seeing some of the team’s newly acquired stars shine on both sides of the ball. No star shined brighter, however, then safety Jessie Bates.
The former Bengal recorded two interceptions and a forced fumble on the day and instantly validated his new four-year $64 million dollar deal he signed this offseason.
Bates has been heralded as a leader on and off the field. He was named a team captain and has called upon his fellow defenders to be accountable in practice, even going so far as to call meetings of his own to make sure the unit stays sharp. He led the defense in tackles as well on Sunday by posting double-digits in that category with 10. Bates proved he belongs as a leader on the team by his vocal leadership and ball-hawk skills by bating rookie Bryce Young into two poor throws.
A true sight for sore eyes was witnessing this defense hold a divisional opponent to just 10 points and making the former Alabama star look pedestrian at best. The Falcons’ run defense was a bit hit-and-miss but when it was on it was clear how dangerous the unit can be. That is another area where Bates can showcase his versatility when needed.
Dukes & Bell are excited about the new faces on both sides of the ball and what Bates adds to the team
“Let’s focus on the positives. Bijan (Robinson) stud, Jessie Bates is a rock star. And when we finally got the ball to (Kyle) Pitts he made an unbelievable catch!” Mike Bell exclaimed.
The Falcons will face a true test when Green Bay comes to town on Sunday. Jordon Love tossed three touchdown passes in his first start as the new QB 1 for the Packers. Bates and the rest of the Falcons defense will have their hands full trying to stop Love through the air and Aaron Jones on the ground.
