The Atlanta Falcons knew they were heading into a rough game against the Denver Broncos, given that the Broncos are an improving team and the Falcons were banged up. I knew a loss was a real possibility, the same as you did, and I braced for an ugly day.
This was beyond the pale. The Falcons couldn’t get pressure, which is not a new concern, but beyond that they also couldn’t stop the kind of short passes they’re supposed to be able to put the brakes on through smart play and sure tackling. The Broncos ran endless screens and got the ball out of Bo Nix’s hands quickly, counting on Atlanta not being able to take the right angle or make the tackle when they needed to, and they were consistently rewarded for it.