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Falcons 24, Bengals 19

Published August 28, 2007 at midnight

ATLANTA - There were plenty of Atlanta fans wearing No. 7 jerseys at the Georgia Dome. They got a chance to cheer for Michael Vick's replacement.

Joey Harrington made a strong first impression by throwing for two touchdowns in a preseason victory for Atlanta over Cincinnati.

It was a needed salve for a franchise trying to get past the stunning downfall of its most dynamic player.

"It's not something we can sweep under the rug," Harrington said. "Mike is definitely in a bit of trouble, but he's still a member of this team, still a member of this family."

Harrington completed his first six passes, including a 28-yard touchdown to Adam Jennings. Harrington left the field with a 17-13 lead and reveling in plenty of cheers. He was 13-of-21 for 164 yards .

"Joey has been great. I think it's a little unfair for him to have to come in and be asked to fill Mike's shoes," tight end Alge Crumpler said. "I'm very proud of his leadership and the way he is accepting the responsibility and stepping up and making plays."

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