ATLANTA | The dream has come true. Not only did Matthew Bergeron perform well in his first NFL game as a starting point guard, he was blessed with a 24-10 win for the Falcons over the Panthers in his baptism of fire in Atlanta.
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In a sober locker room after the meeting, Bergeron looked obviously exhausted but still appeared to be in great physical shape. However, the shock was extremely physical.
Against star tackles Derrick Brown and Deshawn Williams, the Victoriaville Pride was often the attacker and never seemed intimidated by the size of the challenge in front of him.
“I think I was consistent throughout the game. There were a few specific mistakes at the end when they switched defensive lines, but overall I’m proud of my performance in a first game in the NFL and I know I’ll build on that.
“I didn’t give up, I performed and wasn’t dominated. I proved that I can play among these players. “A first game is never perfect, but I’m happy with what I’ve achieved,” he said with the smile of a satisfied player.
Matthew Bergeron was not a little proud and smiled easily when the journal hit him after the Falcons’ win. Stephane Cadorette
A time of adjustment
Obviously, things haven’t always been rosy, either for Bergeron or the Falcons. The attack, despite its explosive potential, is still very young and inexperienced.
The rushing game ended with 75 yards and two touchdowns for sophomore rusher Tyler Allgeier and 56 yards for electric rookie Bijan Robinson. However, sophomore quarterback Desmond Ridder was limited to 115 yards and a touchdown pass. He was the victim of four sacks, but Bergeron was not responsible for them.
“I saw it as a time of learning. There were good and bad games. I only have to correct the mistakes related to my technique. This game will allow me to boost my confidence going into the next 16 games,” said Bergeron.
“We are a physical team that plays a lot with the ball. We feel a bit damaged after such a game, but we install them here to heal. Since I’m out of class, I have time to take care of my body,” he continued.
Brandon Magnus/Atlanta Falcons
Defense gifts
A total of six offensive sequences generated less than 10 yards. However, the Falcons were opportunistic, scoring their first 17 points after turnovers on defense by newcomer Jessie Bates.
After Bates’ first of two interceptions, the Falcons had just 17 yards to score for the touchdown, which was a career first for Robinson with an 11-yard reception.
Bates did it again at the very end of the third quarter, recovering a fumble at midfield. Allgeier scored his first of two rushing touchdowns moments later, and a graceful Bergeron celebrated with him.
“We scored our points through turnovers and that gave us a chance. It’s a team sport. Our attack didn’t do as well in the first half, but we recovered in the second half. I’m happy to see this first win,” commented the Quebecer, who was happy to block on the ground for this dangerous tandem.
A great wealth of experience
All in all, the 23-year-old youngster’s first steps in the NFL will certainly be marked.
“There was a bit of nervousness at first, but once the first game is over you just go into routine and roll and roll and roll. A guy like Derrick Brown is a great test. It was a battle. He caught me and I caught him. Seeing him do thrash talk in front of me was different than in years past. It’s incredible!” Enjoyed the person who described this game as a “learning phase”.
Hats off to Sidy Sow!
Interestingly, Bergeron wasn’t the only Quebecer to start in his first NFL game after all.
In New England, Bromont native Sidy Sow found herself in the heat of the moment when both guards Cole Strange and Michael Onwenu were forced to retire.
Sow, who was selected by the Patriots in the fourth round last April, also experienced his baptism as a right guard.
It was a very special day for football in Quebec!