The Atlanta Falcons and Denver Broncos are two teams with rich histories in the NFL. Both teams have had their fair share of ups and downs over the years, and their matchups often spark intrigue among football fans. Whether it’s their offensive strategies, defensive prowess, or individual players, the Falcons vs Broncos games always present exciting storylines. As the NFL continues to evolve, the future of both teams is as captivating as their past.
This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the Falcons vs Broncos matchup, including team stats, key player profiles, and what fans can expect when these two teams meet. We will also explore the latest trends, strategies, and significant performances, helping you understand the significance of their head-to-head matchups in the NFL.
The Atlanta Falcons’ History and Identity
Founded in 1965, the Atlanta Falcons are a team that has consistently battled for recognition in the NFC South. The team has had a rollercoaster ride in terms of performance, from Super Bowl appearances to long stretches of rebuilding. Despite the ups and downs, the Falcons have a passionate fan base and have produced some of the league’s most exciting players over the years, such as Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, and Deion Sanders. In recent years, the Falcons have been focused on rebuilding under head coach Arthur Smith, looking for a balanced offense and a defensive unit that can get stops when it matters most.
Current Falcons Roster Overview (2024 Season)
As of the 2024 season, the Atlanta Falcons are building around a young, dynamic offense, led by quarterback Desmond Ridder. Their focus is on establishing a consistent rushing attack, led by running back Bijan Robinson, who has emerged as one of the league’s most promising young players. Robinson, drafted in 2023, adds a new dimension to the Falcons’ offense, providing both power and versatility in the running game.
On the defensive side, the Falcons are led by a revamped secondary and a strong pass rush. Players like Grady Jarrett and rookie cornerback Clark Phillips III have stepped up to anchor the defense, and the team has been focusing on improving their overall defense to complement the offense’s ability to control the clock and put points on the board.
Falcons Key Players to Watch
Desmond Ridder (QB) – As the starting quarterback, Ridder’s growth will be crucial for the Falcons’ success. He has shown promise but will need to continue developing as a leader and decision-maker.
Bijan Robinson (RB) – Robinson is already one of the top rookies in the league and brings excitement with his explosive runs and versatility. He’s a significant piece of the Falcons’ offense.
Kyle Pitts (TE) – Pitts has the potential to be a top-tier tight end in the league. His athleticism and ability to stretch the field make him a weapon in both the passing and run game.
Grady Jarrett (DT) – Jarrett is a mainstay on the Falcons’ defense and plays a key role in disrupting the opposing offense, especially with his ability to pressure the quarterback.
The Denver Broncos’ Legacy and Identity
The Denver Broncos, founded in 1960, have established themselves as one of the more storied franchises in the NFL. With three Super Bowl victories (1997, 1998, and 2015), the Broncos have had a history of success, with legendary players such as John Elway, Terrell Davis, and Von Miller contributing to the team’s success.
However, in recent years, the Broncos have faced challenges. A lack of consistent quarterback play and struggles in the coaching department have limited their success. With the hiring of head coach Sean Payton in 2023, the Broncos are hoping to return to their former glory and build a team capable of competing in the highly competitive AFC West.
Current Broncos Roster Overview (2024 Season)
The Broncos, in 2024, are focused on retooling their offense around quarterback Russell Wilson, who struggled in his first season with the team in 2022 but showed signs of improvement in 2023. With the guidance of Sean Payton, Wilson is expected to play more efficiently, using his experience and arm strength to make the offense more dynamic.
The Broncos’ offense is also bolstered by running back Javonte Williams, who provides a strong, physical presence in the backfield. With a talented receiving corps led by Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton, the Broncos have the tools to build an explosive passing attack. Defensively, the Broncos remain a stout unit, thanks to their strong pass rush and secondary. Von Miller’s absence has been felt, but defensive stars like Patrick Surtain II and Randy Gregory have stepped up to lead the charge for Denver.
Broncos Key Players to Watch
Russell Wilson (QB) – Wilson’s performance is crucial for the Broncos. If he can return to his elite form, he could lead Denver back to playoff contention.
Javonte Williams (RB) – Williams is a bruising running back who can grind out tough yards and be a workhorse for the Broncos.
Jerry Jeudy (WR) – Jeudy is a dynamic route runner and one of the top young receivers in the league. His ability to separate from defenders and make big plays is essential for Denver’s offense.
Patrick Surtain II (CB) – Surtain is one of the top cornerbacks in the league and a key player in the Broncos’ secondary. His ability to shut down top wide receivers is vital for Denver’s defensive success.
Quarterback Play: Desmond Ridder vs Russell Wilson
The quarterback battle between Desmond Ridder and Russell Wilson is a key storyline in any Falcons vs Broncos matchup. Ridder, a promising young quarterback, will look to prove himself as the future of the Falcons, while Wilson, a veteran with a Super Bowl ring, will look to bounce back from a difficult 2022 season and return to his high-performing form. Wilson’s experience and ability to make plays with his legs will be vital for the Broncos, while Ridder’s development and decision-making will be put to the test. A solid performance from either quarterback could determine the outcome of the game.
Running Game: Bijan Robinson vs Javonte Williams
The running back matchup is another exciting aspect of this game. Bijan Robinson, the dynamic rookie from Texas, has the potential to be a game-changer for the Falcons. His ability to break tackles, make people miss, and catch passes out of the backfield gives Atlanta a multi-dimensional threat. On the other side, Javonte Williams is a physical, downhill runner who excels at grinding out yards and moving the chains for the Broncos.
Williams will be crucial to Denver’s offensive success, especially in controlling the clock and keeping the defense on its heels. The team that can establish its running game early and control the tempo of the game will have a significant advantage.
Defensive Battle: Grady Jarrett vs Broncos Offensive Line
Grady Jarrett is one of the most disruptive defensive tackles in the NFL, and he will be a key player for the Falcons’ defense in stopping the Broncos’ running game and pressuring Russell Wilson. Jarrett’s ability to push the pocket and collapse the interior line will be vital for Atlanta’s success. For the Broncos, their offensive line will need to step up and neutralize Jarrett’s impact. If the Broncos can give Wilson time in the pocket and open lanes for Williams, it will be difficult for the Falcons to get stops.
Wide Receivers vs Secondary: Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton vs Falcons DBs
The Broncos’ receiving duo of Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton is one of the more talented in the league. Jeudy’s crisp route running and Sutton’s ability to make contested catches will be important against the Falcons’ secondary, which features promising young players like A.J. Terrell.
For the Falcons to succeed in this matchup, their defensive backs will need to be physical with Jeudy and Sutton and prevent them from getting open deep downfield. If they can shut down the Broncos’ passing game, it will force Wilson to rely more on his running game and short passes, where the Falcons can be more effective.
Recent Matchups: Falcons vs Broncos
While the Falcons and Broncos don’t face off frequently, their previous matchups have been competitive. In recent history, both teams have had their share of close games, and the outcomes have often hinged on key moments or standout individual performances.
Historically, the Broncos have had the upper hand in the series, but the Falcons have had their fair share of memorable victories. A notable game between the two took place in 2019 when the Broncos edged the Falcons 23-20 in a nail-biter. In that game, the Broncos’ defense stepped up to stop the Falcons’ offense in the second half, showcasing the importance of both teams’ defensive units in close games.
What to Expect in Future Falcons vs Broncos Games
As both teams continue to evolve, their matchups are sure to remain exciting. With the Falcons focusing on developing their young stars and the Broncos looking to rebound and contend for a playoff spot, each game between these two franchises holds the potential for significant implications for the playoff race.
Fans can expect close, hard-fought games in the future, with key matchups between quarterbacks, running backs, and defensive units. The performances of players like Desmond Ridder, Bijan Robinson, Russell Wilson, and Jerry Jeudy will be crucial in determining the outcome of these matchups, making Falcons vs Broncos games a must-watch event in the NFL calendar. As both teams look to continue their growth, expect these matchups to deliver exciting football and highlight the next generation of NFL stars.
FAQs
When was the last Falcons vs Broncos game?
The last matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and the Denver Broncos took place during the 2021 NFL season, on November 8, 2021. The Broncos won the game 34-27 in a tightly contested battle at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver.
What is the all-time record between the Falcons and Broncos?
As of 2025, the all-time record between the Atlanta Falcons and Denver Broncos is 9-5 in favor of the Broncos. These two teams have faced each other numerous times, with the most notable being their Super Bowl 33 showdown in 1999, where the Broncos defeated the Falcons to win their second championship.
How many times have the Falcons and Broncos met in the Super Bowl?
The Falcons and Broncos have faced off once in the Super Bowl, which was Super Bowl XXXIII on January 31, 1999. The Denver Broncos won the game 34-19, securing their second consecutive Super Bowl victory under quarterback John Elway.
Who won the most recent Falcons vs Broncos matchup?
The Denver Broncos won the most recent matchup between the two teams, which took place on November 8, 2021. The Broncos came out on top 34-27 in a high-scoring affair, largely due to their offensive efficiency and strong defensive plays.
What’s the history of the Falcons vs Broncos rivalry?
The rivalry between the Falcons and Broncos is not as heated as some other NFL matchups, but it gained significant attention with the Super Bowl XXXIII showdown in 1999. Over the years, the games have been competitive, with the Broncos generally holding a slight edge. The matchup always carries an intriguing narrative, especially with both teams striving for consistency and playoff contention in recent years.
When is the next Falcons vs Broncos game?
The next Falcons vs Broncos game will depend on the NFL schedule for the upcoming season. Since the two teams are in different conferences (the Falcons in the NFC and the Broncos in the AFC), they only face each other once every four years unless they meet in the Super Bowl or other special matchups.
In Summary
The Atlanta Falcons vs. Denver Broncos matchup may not be a traditional rivalry, but it remains an intriguing game whenever these two teams face off. With historic moments like Super Bowl XXXIII, competitive regular-season battles, and evolving team dynamics, each game carries significant interest for fans. While the Broncos have historically held the edge in head-to-head matchups, the Falcons continue to develop a strong roster that could challenge Denver in future encounters.
Looking ahead, both franchises are in the midst of transitions, with young talent, new coaching strategies, and playoff aspirations shaping their paths. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a casual NFL viewer, the next Falcons vs. Broncos showdown promises exciting football, strategic battles, and the potential for unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for the next chapter in this inter-conference clash.
To read more, Click Here .
