Ryan, defense lead Falcons over Saints

ATLANTA - Drew Brees was the NFL's most prolific passer. He was no match for the Falcons' defense.

While rookie Matt Ryan put in another solid day, Brees threw a season-high three interceptions, the last of them returned 95 yards for a touchdown by Chevis Jackson, and Atlanta beat up on the New Orleans Saints 34-20 Sunday.

Ryan threw two touchdown passes for the Falcons (6-3), who won for the fourth time in five games to remain in the thick of the playoff race. The Saints (4-5) again failed to put together their first winning streak of the season.

Jackson finished off New Orleans with the second-longest interception return for a touchdown in Falcons' history.