Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris urged his team to show resilience during a challenging stretch, and they responded with determination on Thursday night. In a dramatic game at Raymond James Stadium, the Falcons overcame a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter to secure a 29-28 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The game concluded with a 43-yard field goal by Falcons kicker Zane Gonzalez as time expired, sealing the comeback. Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins had an impressive performance, completing 30 of 44 passes for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Bijan Robinson contributed significantly with 19 carries for 93 yards and added eight receptions for 82 yards. Tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. had a standout night, recording 11 catches for 166 yards and three touchdowns.
This loss proved costly for the Buccaneers, who are in a tight race with the Carolina Panthers for the NFC South title. With this defeat, Tampa Bay dropped to a 7-7 record, falling half a game behind Carolina with three weeks remaining in the season. The Buccaneers have managed only one win in their last six games, while Atlanta celebrated just its second victory in the past nine outings.
Here are the key takeaways from the matchup:
Falcons” Key Performers
Kirk Cousins has consistently excelled against the Buccaneers, and his performance on Thursday night was no exception. He achieved over 150 passing yards and two touchdowns in the first half, marking the third consecutive game he has done so against this division rival. Notably, Pitts recorded his first 100-yard receiving game since his rookie season in 2021, showcasing a critical performance in the absence of Drake London due to injury.
The Falcons struggled with penalties, committing ten in the first half, the highest total for the team in a half since 1984. Despite this, they managed to overcome a franchise-record 19 accepted penalties, demonstrating their grit and determination.
Bucs” Struggles in Late Game
The Buccaneers were visibly shaken following the late-game events, with wide receiver Mike Evans exiting the field before the final kick. The home crowd expressed their frustration with loud boos that lingered after the game concluded. After a promising start to the season at 5-1, Tampa Bay”s performance has declined, and if the Panthers win against the New Orleans Saints, their chances of clinching the NFC South could drop significantly.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield faced challenges throughout the game, experiencing pressure on 43% of his dropbacks, the highest rate he has encountered this season. He was sacked five times, a season-high. While Mayfield connected on several deep throws, including a touchdown to Chris Godwin Jr. and a significant reception to Evans, missed opportunities plagued the Buccaneers.
The turning point of the game occurred with 8:28 remaining when Dee Alford intercepted a pass intended for Evans, setting up a touchdown that brought the Falcons within two points. The Buccaneers” defense, lacking key players due to injuries, struggled to contain Pitts, who capitalized on their weaknesses to score twice.
As both teams look ahead, the Falcons will face the Arizona Cardinals next, while the Buccaneers prepare for a crucial matchup against the Carolina Panthers.
