TAMPA, Fla. – Kirk Cousins put on a passing clinic Sunday, throwing for 276 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Atlanta Falcons to a 31-26 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With the win, the Falcons (5-3) take sole possession of first place in the NFC South.
Kyle Pitts was Cousins’ favorite target, hauling in touchdown receptions of 36 and 49 yards. Cousins also connected with Darnell Mooney for a 30-yard score and Bijan Robinson for a 7-yard touchdown.
READ: Buccaneers’ Mike Evans And Chris Godwin Injured In Loss To Ravens
This marks the second time this season the Falcons have defeated their division rivals, completing a season sweep of the Buccaneers.
Despite a valiant effort from Baker Mayfield, who threw for 330 yards and three touchdowns, the Buccaneers (4-4) fell short. Mayfield’s two interceptions proved costly, and a last-second Hail Mary attempt was caught out of bounds as time expired.
Injuries to key receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans hampered the Buccaneers. Godwin is out for the season, and Evans is expected to miss at least three games.
Game Recap:
The Falcons capitalized on an early fumble by the Buccaneers, with Cousins finding Pitts for a 36-yard touchdown on their opening drive. The Buccaneers responded with a touchdown run by Cade Otton, tying the game at 7.
Rachaad White gave the Buccaneers their first lead with an 18-yard touchdown reception, but the Falcons quickly answered with a 49-yard touchdown pass to Pitts. Cousins then connected with Mooney for a 30-yard score, giving the Falcons a 21-14 lead.
READ: Tampa Bay Bucs In Shock After Monday Night
A late field goal by Younghoe Koo extended the Falcons’ lead to 24-17 at halftime.
In the second half, the Buccaneers’ defense stepped up with a key interception by Jessie Bates III. However, the Falcons responded with a touchdown run by Bijan Robinson, extending their lead to 31-17.
A safety and a touchdown pass to Otton brought the Buccaneers within five points, but they were unable to complete the comeback.
Key Takeaways:
- Cousins Continues to Shine: Kirk Cousins has been exceptional against the Buccaneers this season. In their previous meeting, he threw for a career-high 509 yards and four touchdowns.
- Pitts Dominates: Kyle Pitts had a breakout performance, showcasing his potential as a top-tier tight end.
- Mayfield’s Mixed Bag: Baker Mayfield put up impressive passing numbers but his turnovers ultimately hurt the Buccaneers.
- Injuries Impact Buccaneers: The absence of Godwin and Evans significantly impacted the Buccaneers’ offensive firepower.
The Falcons will look to build on their momentum and solidify their position atop the NFC South, while the Buccaneers face an uphill battle with key injuries impacting their offense.
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