Atlanta Falcons 1979: A Game-by-Game Guide

Relive the Atlanta Falcons' memorable 1979 season with this guide that explores the entire year game by game, from the improbable opening day overtime victory over the Saints through the triumph over the 49ers in O.J. Simpson's final game, as told in the newspaper accounts of the day.

Coming off of their first-ever playoff appearance in 1978, the Falcons entered '79 with high hopes. Their 2-0 start only heightened expectations, but the Grits Blitz lost some of its oomph and Atlanta began to lose the close games that it used to win. Still, there were many highlights along the way, including one of the strangest gmae-ending plays in NFL history in Week 1, victories over three playoff teams (Eagles, Bucs and Chargers) and that Week 16 win over San Francisco in the Juice's finale.

All of the highs and lows from the exciting season are here. A full recap and box score from every game is included, so you can follow the exploits of Leeman Bennett's bunch as it took a step back with emerging stars like William Andrews before surging forward with an incredible year in 1980.

Whether you are a die-hard Falcons fan or an NFL history buff, you will enjoy this look back at the 1979 Atlanta Falcons.