The Atlanta Falcons won their third straight game and are 4-2 on the season. Atlanta pulled away in the fourth quarter and left the Carolina Panthers in the dust en route to an 18-point victory over their division rivals.

With each win, the Falcons continue to demonstrate their ability to grow and improve, but a few things have remained the same. Here's this week's quick response.

Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier are headlining Kirktober Fest

Bijan Robinson scored two rushing touchdowns in the same game for the first time in his career. The former eighth overall pick had his best game of the season, averaging 6.3 yards per carry for 95 yards and 10 yards as a receiver. Tyler Allgeier wore down the defense and finished the day with 105 on the ground, averaging 5.8 yards per carry and a touchdown of his own.

After only having one rushing touchdown all year, Atlanta's backfield put three on the list. That's the kind of impressive performance the Falcons needed to have on the ground. Yes, the Panthers are dealing with a lot of injuries, but we saw Robinson incorporate more inside zone and duo concepts this week as well, and it paid off. Atlanta needs to continue to build on its positive results.

The run defense issues continue

The run defense was looking for a boost with the addition of Nate Landman, but got none. Chuba Hubbard continued his impressive 2024 season with 92 yards on the ground, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. Even with three starters out, the Carolina Panthers were able to get around the Falcons' defensive line whenever they wanted to run the ball.

Ruke Orhorhoro wasn't seen much after providing good support in the run a week ago. Jimmy Lake has made little to no change in his approach so far this season. He's content to be in nickel and seems to be waiting for his players to win their battles. This strategy cannot be continued for much longer; Lake needs to figure out how to adapt before a team can truly set Atlanta on fire.

This offense can earn points

After years of struggling to score 30 points, the Falcons scored more than 30 points in consecutive games. The offense showed early in the season that it could move the ball but struggled to get it into the end zone. Those issues have dissipated during this three-game stretch of NFC South Division play.

The Falcons have benefited from injuries during this run, but every team in the NFL is dealing with injuries right now and all Atlanta can do is control their play. The offense performed at a high level, took advantage of its chances and left less on the field.

The Falcons have their playoff hopes in hand

It’s time to use the “p” word. The Atlanta Falcons are 4-0 in the NFC and 3-0 in their division. They are in complete control of their playoff fate and can win more than just a division title. The Falcons have four NFC conference games remaining, two of which are division games. These next four games will be the difference between a wild card birth and a possible bye.

It could also significantly cloud the picture for Atlanta, leaving their playoff hopes clouded and uncertain until the final quarter of the season. It's a fun and scary place, and it's great to have these conversations about Atlanta again. The Falcons still have to take it one week at a time, but this team is capable of making some noise and moving up in the league.

The Falcons are off to their best six-game start since 2016 and will be looking for another win on Monday. The sky is the limit for the Falcons right now. They're not perfect, but they're finally playing winning football again and everyone wanted to see that.