The Atlanta Falcons marched into New Orleans on Sunday and delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, defeating the Saints 24–10 in a statement divisional win. Atlanta dominated defensively, executed offensively, and shined on special teams—setting the tone early and controlling the game throughout at the Caesars Superdome.
And on Wednesday, one of the key contributors to that victory earned league-wide recognition.
Zane Gonzalez Named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week
Atlanta Falcons kicker Zane Gonzalez has been named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week for Week 12, the NFL announced Wednesday. Gonzalez played a crucial role in Sunday’s win, connecting on all three of his field goal attempts—good from 41, 54, and 56 yards.
His 56-yarder was just one yard shy of his career long and marked a historic milestone: Gonzalez became only the second Falcons kicker ever to make two field goals of 54 or more yards in a single game, joining legendary kicker Morten Andersen, who first accomplished the feat on Dec. 10, 1995, also against the Saints.
This is the third Player of the Week honor of Gonzalez’s career. He previously earned the award twice during the 2021 season (Weeks 8 and 10).
Falcons Player of the Week Honors Since 2024
- Zane Gonzalez – Special Teams, 2025 Week 12 at New Orleans
- Bijan Robinson – Offensive, 2025 Week 6 vs. Buffalo
- KhaDarel Hodge – Special Teams, 2024 Week 15 vs. Las Vegas
- Kirk Cousins – Offensive, 2024 Week 8 at Tampa Bay
- Kirk Cousins – Offensive, 2024 Week 5 vs. Tampa Bay
- Troy Andersen – Defensive, 2024 Week 4 vs. New Orleans
- Jessie Bates III – Defensive, 2024 Week 2 at Philadelphia
These honors reflect the growing balance—and star power—across Atlanta’s roster.
Falcons Dominate in New Orleans
The Falcons’ 24–10 victory was their largest win in New Orleans since 2019 and showcased excellence on every level.
Atlanta’s defense was relentless, recording five sacks and holding the Saints to just 95 first-half yards. The pass rush continued its historic stretch, as the Falcons became the first team in franchise history to record five or more sacks in four straight games. The run defense also stood tall, holding New Orleans to only 3.76 yards per play—their best defensive mark since 2018—and limiting quarterback Tyler Shough to just 22 rushing yards.
Offensively, Kirk Cousins delivered an efficient outing, Bijan Robinson broke the 100-yard mark from scrimmage yet again, and young playmakers stepped up. But it was Gonzalez who put the finishing touches on Atlanta’s victory with three booming field goals, including back-to-back kicks from well beyond 50 yards.
Onward to New York
The Falcons will stay on the road this week as they prepare for their next matchup.
Atlanta continues its road trip and heads to New York to take on the Jets on Nov. 30.
