Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris implored his team to show resilience heading into their matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday night. The Falcons responded by overcoming a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter, securing a dramatic 29-28 victory at Raymond James Stadium. The game concluded with Zane Gonzalez“s 43-yard field goal as time expired.
This win featured standout performances from quarterback Kirk Cousins, running back Bijan Robinson, and tight end Kyle Pitts Sr.. Cousins completed 30 of 44 passes for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Robinson contributed significantly with 19 carries for 93 yards and added 82 receiving yards on eight receptions. Pitts had an explosive night with 11 catches for 166 yards and three touchdowns.
The loss was particularly damaging for the Buccaneers, who are in a tight race with the Carolina Panthers for the NFC South title. Tampa Bay now sits half a game behind Carolina with three weeks left in the season, having won only once in their last six outings. Meanwhile, Atlanta celebrated just their second win in nine games.
Atlanta Falcons (5-9) analyzed: Cousins continued his success against the Buccaneers, having previously enjoyed his best games of the season against them. In the first half alone, he threw for over 150 yards and two touchdowns, marking a consistent pattern against their division rival. In a noteworthy achievement, Pitts recorded his first 100-yard receiving game since his rookie season in 2021, showcasing a performance that was much needed in the absence of Drake London (knee injury).
Despite the victory, the Falcons faced challenges, committing 10 penalties in the first half—the highest for the franchise since 1984. They ultimately finished with 19 accepted penalties, a franchise record and the most by any team this season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-7) breakdown: The emotional toll of the game was evident, with wide receiver Mike Evans, returning from a broken collarbone, exiting the tunnel before the final kick. The home crowd voiced their frustration with prolonged boos following the game. After starting the season strong at 5-1, the Buccaneers have now stumbled to a 7-7 record. If the Panthers defeat the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, the Buccaneers” chances of winning the division would drop to 35%. However, if Carolina loses, Tampa Bay would still maintain a 76% chance.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield struggled with consistency throughout the game, facing pressure on 43% of his dropbacks and suffering a season-high five sacks. While he showed improvement with deep passes, completing 6 of 9 attempts for over 15 yards, the team missed several critical opportunities, particularly on their final drive, where they were forced to punt instead of running down the clock.
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. Tampa Bay”s defense faltered, particularly in the secondary, which was hampered by injuries, failing to contain Pitts effectively.
The Buccaneers” next challenge will be against the Carolina Panthers on December 21 at 1 p.m. ET, where they hope to regain control of their playoff destiny.
