Matt Hennessy
Atlanta Falcons running back Cordarrelle Patterson, middle right, is tackled at the goal line by San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Kevin Givens, middle, and middle linebacker Fred Warner, right, during the first half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
Atlanta Falcons at San Francisco 49ers 12/19/2021

Dec. 19, 2021 04:23 PM EST

Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts (8), left, is greeted by Atlanta Falcons tight end Lee Smith (85) after scoring a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game between the New York Jets and the Atlanta Falcons at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium in London, England, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2021. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
Falcons on upswing under Smith, have cause for encouragement

By Charles Odum Oct. 14, 2021 01:53 PM EDT