The Atlanta Falcons lost Super Bowl LI in one of the worst losses in sports history, but Matt Ryan, as the team’s leader and quarterback, can use this loss to drive the team forward.

While the Super Bowl loss was hard for every Falcons fan and some have yet to accept it, Matt Ryan had to endure it first hand and be almost powerless to change it. When Freeman missed his block and Ryan was sacked, the energy left Atlanta’s side for good. Ryan helplessly tried to convert a 3rd and 23, then a 3rd and 33 after a holding penalty. After the attempt of course failed, Ryan could only watch from the sidelines as a determined New England team marched down the field and scored to force overtime, and then drove down the field again to win the game.

But even though the MVP has to live with the loss and even take some of the blame, he has the power to use it positively. Ryan knows that the offense could’ve done more before the Falcons were in that tragic late game situation. Ryan knows that the Falcons offense should’ve scored when called upon or at least held the ball longer in the second half to give the defense time to catch their breath. So instead of moping about, he took the loss and he learned from it. He accepted that it was his partially fault, but he will play with the determination of a madman to never allow the Falcons to lose like that again.

Further, Ryan is a fierce competitor and leader. In every practice, he can use the loss as a reminder to the team and a point of motivation. Everyone on the team will know that Ryan takes the loss personally. Then, they will understand that they are expected to compete with his same fire and drive. When everyone is playing, running, and hitting with that kind of ambition, the Falcons will be a tough team to stop.

So, yes the loss will sting for many years to come. Yes, every sports commentator will mention it every time there is Falcons news or a Falcons game. Yes, the relentless internet jokes and memes will still be perpetuated by other NFL fans. However, the Falcons themselves won’t let any of that get to them. Matt Ryan will use this loss as a tool to propel the team forward. Instead of a group of men weighed down by a loss, they will be a team of gladiators fighting for a chance at redemption.

Ryan has already shown his spirit for next season, sharing a message for the Atlanta faithful on his Instagram following the loss:

We came up short last night and my heart hurts for you Atlanta. Hats off to New England they played a heck of a game. We will adapt, we will over come, we will #RiseUp again.