The Atlanta Falcons (3-2) bounced back from two consecutive road losses with a 21-19 win over the Houston Texans (1-4) at home on Sunday. The Falcons’ offense showed signs of life after scoring just 13 points in the previous two games, while the defense held the Texans to four field goals and one touchdown. Here are the fantasy stud and dud from the Falcons’ Week 5 victory.
Fantasy Stud: Kyle Pitts
The rookie tight end had a breakout game against the Texans, catching seven passes for 87 yards and scoring his first career touchdown. Pitts was targeted 10 times by quarterback Desmond Ridder, who had his best game as a pro with 329 passing yards and two touchdowns (one passing, one rushing). Pitts showed off his athleticism and versatility, lining up in different spots and making some tough catches in traffic. He also had a 25-yard reception that set up the Falcons’ go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter. Pitts rewarded fantasy owners who stuck with him through his slow start and proved why he was the No. 4 overall pick in the draft.
Fantasy Dud: Cordarrelle Patterson
The veteran wide receiver and return specialist had a quiet game against the Texans, recording just one catch for seven yards. Patterson was targeted only twice by Ridder, who spread the ball around to nine different receivers. Patterson also did not have any impact on special teams, returning one kickoff for 18 yards and one punt for six yards. Patterson has been a valuable fantasy asset in previous seasons, especially in leagues that reward return yards, but he has fallen behind Drake London and Russell Gage in the Falcons’ receiving pecking order. Patterson may have some big games down the road, but he is not a reliable fantasy option right now.
Other Notable Performances
- Drake London: The second-year wide receiver had his best game of the season, catching six passes for 78 yards and completing a 22-yard pass on a trick play. London showed his big-play ability, averaging 13 yards per catch and making some contested catches. He also drew a pass interference penalty that led to a field goal. London is emerging as Ridder’s favorite target and a solid fantasy option in PPR leagues.
- Desmond Ridder: The rookie quarterback silenced some of his critics with a career-high 329 passing yards and two touchdowns (one passing, one rushing). Ridder completed 28 of 37 passes and did not throw any interceptions. He also ran for 10 yards and scored on a one-yard sneak. Ridder showed poise and accuracy, making some impressive throws under pressure and avoiding sacks. He also distributed the ball well, finding nine different receivers. Ridder is still a risky fantasy play, but he has upside in favorable matchups.
- Dee Alford: The undrafted cornerback had a strong game on defense, recording six tackles, two pass breakups and one tackle for loss. Alford played well in coverage, limiting the Texans’ receivers to short gains and breaking up some potential big plays. He also made a key tackle on third down that forced the Texans to settle for a field goal in the fourth quarter. Alford has been a pleasant surprise for the Falcons’ secondary, earning a starting role as the nickel corner.
