Matt Ryan tells SVP that running the ball was key during the Falcons' victory over the Saints and credits Atlanta's running backs for such an impressive offensive performance. (2:30)

NEW ORLEANS -- Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan appeared to hurt his thumb in the second half of Monday night's 45-32 win against the New Orleans Saints, but Ryan brushed it off as no big deal.

Ryan received medical attention on the sideline after being sacked by Nick Fairley in the fourth quarter. When Ryan returned to the game, he was wearing a glove on his left hand.

"I took a hit on it in the game, but I'm fine," Ryan said. "Put a glove on just to make sure I'd get a good grip afterwards. But I'm fine. I feel pretty good."

Ryan hasn't missed a game because of injury since the 2009 season, when he was sidelined with turf toe.

The Falcons (2-1) have a quick turnaround with Sunday's NFC South showdown with the Carolina Panthers (1-2) at the Georgia Dome. Right now, the Falcons are atop the division. Ryan's status will be worth monitoring to see if he's limited at all in practice.

When asked about Ryan's thumb, Falcons coach Dan Quinn said, "I wasn't told anything about that."

Quinn said wide receiver Mohamed Sanu suffered a shoulder injury and wanted to return in the second half but couldn't.