Atlanta Falcons

The long-awaited grand opening of the $1.5 billion Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta didn’t exactly bring out the best in the home team on Aug. 26. Reigning league MVP Matt

Ryan posted a 8.1 passer rating in a 24-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, completing four of 11 passes for 36 yards with one interception in three series.

WRs Julio Jones (foot) and Taylor Gabriel (leg) made their preseason debuts after being limited during much of training camp trying to get healthy, though neither did more than stretch their legs when in the game.

\Rookie watch: Fifth-round RB Brian Hill is doubtful for an Aug. 31 home game against the Jacksonville Jaguars after injuring his ankle against Arizona. He is pushing veteran RB Terron

Ward for the No. 3 job. .... Top pick DE Takkarist McKinley had two tackles and a fumble recovery and continues to trend upward. ... Third-round LB Duke

Riley posted two tackles and had a fumble recovery. He could take on a bigger role if WLB LaRoy

Reynolds misses time with a shoulder injury. Noteworthy: RB Devonta Freeman will go through the final stages of concussion protocol while he prepares for the regularseason opener. ... Wes Schweitzer started ahead of Ben Gar

land for a second consecutive game, though coach Dan Quinn said he won’t name a starter at right guard until after the next game. ... Veteran OT Austin

Pasztor was recently signed to be the team’s swing tackle but now he’s dealing with an injured chest muscle. ... Free agent DE Jack

Crawford, who signed a threeyear, $9.9 million contract in March, is solidifying his role as a situational pass rusher. He had a sack, tackle for loss, quarterback hit and a forced fumble.