Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan has a higher interception rate against the Cardinals than any other opponent he’s faced during his seven years in the league.
That’s no doubt a talking point this week among the Cardinals, whose 15 interceptions are tied for second-most in the NFL.
“I believe he threw nine interceptions in the last two meetings,” Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson said.
The Falcons overcame Ryan’s five interceptions to beat the Cardinals 23-19 in 2012. Ryan threw three interceptions in a 27-13 loss at Arizona last season.
“Thanks for bringing that up,” Ryan said, laughing.
Ryan has thrown more interceptions against the Buccaneers (12) and Panthers (10) but he faces those NFC South opponents twice per year. His interception rate of 6.4 percent against Arizona is his highest against any opponent.
Ryan had a superlative day in his first meeting against the Cardinals in 2010 with 225 yards passing, three touchdowns and no interceptions in a 41-7 victory. It’s been a struggle against Arizona since then.
“This defense, they’ve played very well against us the last couple of years,” Ryan said. “That said, we are 1-1 in the last two years. I think the biggest thing is you have to stay patient. They are going to make some plays. You are going to be off schedule at certain times. You’ve got to continue to take what’s there and I’ve got to do a better job than I’ve done the previous two times against them.”
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