Atlanta - The Atlanta Falcons defeated the visiting New Orleans Saints 37-34 in overtime Sunday as Matt Bryant made a 52-yard field goal in the season opener.

The Falcons got in scoring position in overtime when they recovered receiver Marques Colston's fumble at the Saints' 38-yard line.

It was the second big kick for Bryant as he made a 51-yarder as time expired to force the extra period.

Both teams' offense dominated play with the Falcons piling up 568 yards while the Saints had 472. Matt Ryan threw for a franchise-record 448 yards on 31 of 43 passing with three touchdowns and no interceptions.

Julio Jones led the Falcons receivers with seven catches for 116 yards while Devin Hester added five catches for 92 yards. Steven Jackson was the team's top rusher with 52 yards on 12. Jacquizz Rodgers chipped in 34 yards including 17 on a fourth quarter touchdown run.

Saints quarterback Drew Brees was 29 of 42 for 333 yards with one touchdown and one interception (which ended a potential scoring drive).

Rookie receiver Brandin Cooks dazzled in his debut making seven catches for 77 yards and a touchdown (the receptions tied a franchise record for rookies). Colston had a big game with five catches for 110 yards and Jimmy Graham had eight catches for 82 yards.

Mark Ingram had two touchdown runs among his 13 carries for 60 yards.

The Saints will play at Cleveland next Sunday at noon central.