 |
| Jed Jacobsohn / Getty Images |
| Edgerrin James' 73-yard effort gave a boost to the Cards' last-ranked run game. |
It was over when ...
Cardinals QB Kurt Warner hit TE Stephen Spach over the middle for 23 yards on third-and-16 with 2:16 left. The crucial first down prevented the Falcons from attempting a potential winning drive and preserved the Cardinals' first home playoff win since 1947.
Game ball
Arizona's defense harassed Atlanta rookie QB Matt Ryan the entire game and held the Falcons' second-ranked rushing attack to just 60 yards. The unit collected three sacks, two interceptions, returned a fumble for a touchdown and had a safety.
Key stat
The Falcons outscored their opponents 234-139 in the first half during the regular season but were outscored by opponents 186-154 in the second half. True to form, the Falcons held the lead at halftime but opened the third quarter with a series of mistakes and allowed the Cardinals to score 16 unanswered points in the second half.
Noteworthy
Matt Ryan's 26 completions set a new rookie record in a postseason game. ... Cardinals wide receiver Anquan Boldin suffered a hamstring injury on his 71-yard touchdown reception and did not return. ... Cardinals CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie picked up his fourth interception of the season. ... The Falcons have lost their last three playoff road games. ... The Cardinals are now 7-2 at home this season and 13-4 under coach Ken Whisenhunt.
