Atlanta visits Tampa Bay on Sunday in a key NFC South matchup between two teams coming off Week 7 wins. The Buccaneers’ elite defense and rushing attack face a Falcons offense led by quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and running back Bijan Robinson. The game kicks off at 1 p.m. ET at Raymond James Stadium and airs on FOX, with streaming available on FOX One.

By the Numbers
  • Falcons: 3-4 overall, 2-1 on the road; Buccaneers: 2-5 overall.
  • Tampa Bay allows 295 total yards per game, third-best in the NFL.
  • Atlanta averages 24.4 points per game, a top-10 mark.
  • Bijan Robinson leads the NFL with 704 rushing yards; Tampa Bay allows 77 rushing yards per game, second-best in the league.
  • The Buccaneers have 8 interceptions, tied for second in the NFL; Atlanta has allowed 17 sacks.
Yes, But

Tampa Bay’s 2-5 record contrasts with its strong defense and recent 43-13 win over Carolina. Atlanta has the better record and a productive offense, but faces a defense built to pressure Penix and disrupt his throws.

State of Play
  • Penix has thrown 9 touchdown passes and just 1 interception in 5 starts, but Tampa Bay’s ball-hawking secondary will test his decisions.
  • Robinson’s recent rushing production has dipped; his receiving work could help Atlanta keep its offense on schedule.
  • Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield is returning from a dislocated right thumb. Tampa Bay may lean on Bucky Irving and its No. 3-ranked rushing attack.
  • Atlanta’s pass rush has 17 sacks, while Tampa Bay’s run game averages 146 yards per game.
What's Next

Watch Mayfield’s early passing volume for clues about how fully he has recovered, and whether Atlanta can force Tampa Bay into obvious passing situations. The matchup may turn on Atlanta’s ability to contain Irving and Tampa Bay’s ability to pressure Penix.

Bottom Line

Atlanta’s path is to stay ahead of the chains and make Tampa Bay throw; the Buccaneers’ path is to run effectively, protect Mayfield and let their defense challenge Penix.