Stick took a majority of the snaps against the Lions as the seventh-year quarterback from North Dakota State got the start. Emory Jones took over after halftime and played the remainder of the game, which was just the third quarter. Jones was efficient before the game was called, completing four of five passes for 49 yards.

After allowing the Detroit Lions to go right down the field and take the lead, the Atlanta Falcons followed suit with a few big plays of their own late in the second quarter of Friday's preseason opener. Quarterback Easton Stick connected with wide receiver Chris Blair for a touchdown to help the Falcons retake the lead before halftime.