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Alabama in the Pros

Former Tide stars Calvin Ridley and Julio Jones put on a show for the Falcons, despite a loss

Calvin Ridley of the Atlanta Falcons runs with the ball versus Seattle Seahawks
Dale Zanine - USA TODAY Sports

For Alabama fans who support the Atlanta Falcons, the question is when will the franchise get over the hump and become exceptional?

While it has struggled since its run to the Super Bowl in 2016, fans of the Falcons and Crimson Tide were able to count on Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley last season. Jones, a 10-year veteran, brought in his seventh 1,000-yard season (1,394) and sixth consecutive 1,000-yard campaign.

Ridley, who is in his third year, recorded 866 yards with seven touchdowns. On Sunday, the tandem at wide receiver put on a clinic for the Falcons versus the Seattle Seahawks.

RELATED: Josh Jacobs leads Las Vegas Raiders to first win of franchise history over the Panthers

Spectators inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium were treated to Jones and Ridley both catching nine passes each for over 100 yards receiving, despite a 38-25 loss at home. Jones totaled 157 yards on an average of 17.4 yards per catch, and Ridley collected 130 yards with two scores.

He averaged 14.4 yards per reception and both players were targeted 12 times.

For both guys to be dominant and a defeat still occurred is disheartening for fans.

Jones and Ridley were both first-round picks that won national championships at Alabama.

Both are in the top five all-time in school history for receptions and receiving yards, while Ridley stands in the top five for touchdown catches (19).

Hopefully, the two can push Atlanta deep into the playoffs this season.

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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.

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Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

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