Falcons face ninth straight losing season after penalty‑laden loss to Bengals

The Atlanta Falcons’ defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals 34‑17 in Madrid has left them 3‑6 and on course for a ninth consecutive losing season.

Atlanta committed a season‑high 12 penalties for 88 yards, including false‑starts by left guard Matthew Bergeron and right tackle Jawaan Taylor, and a holding call that cancelled a Michael Penix Jr. pass to Kyle Pitts. Coach Kevin Stefanski called the mistakes “self‑inflicted” and “inexcusable”.

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. completed 20 of 31 passes for 162 yards, one touchdown and one interception, while also recording a career‑high 50 rushing yards on three carries, including a 23‑yard run.

Running back Bijan Robinson posted his first 100‑yard game with 19 carries for 100 yards, a touchdown and six catches for 47 yards. The Bengals’ Joe Burrow threw for 271 yards and three touchdowns, connecting with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, who each scored.

Following the loss, the Falcons traded safety Jessie Bates III to the Jacksonville Jaguars for a 2027 second‑round and a 2028 fifth‑round draft pick, signalling a shift toward rebuilding.

To finish with a winning record for the first time since 2017, Atlanta must win at least six of their final eight games, all against opponents with winning records.

Source: ABC News. Photo: Rwanda Lens / Pexels.