If one wanted to see the 2025 Falcons at their absolute best, oftentimes, only two scenarios were required: a nationally-televised stage, and a head-to-head against a like-minded postseason contender. Atlanta finished 4-1 in under-the-lights games, and on Dec. 29, 2025, former Pro Bowl safety Jessie Bates offered a quite-memorable highlight, turning a misfired pass into a pick-six against the NFL’s could-be Most Valuable Player. The Los Angeles Rams were among the league’s absolute elites, and on Monday Night Football, Atlanta proved it could go play-for-play with them in a 27-24 victory; as for Bates, he closed with seven tackles, alongside the 34-yard pick-and-score.
