Atlanta Falcons (1-2) vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1)
Game Info: Thursday, October 3, 2024 at 8:15 pm (Mercedes-Benz Stadium)
Betting Odds: Atlanta Falcons -2.5 --- Over/Under: 43 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: Prime Video Stream live sports and exclusive originals on ESPN+. Sign up now!
In this article, we will formulate an Atlanta Falcons vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Prediction for this NFL Week 5 game on Thursday, October 3rd, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Buccaneers Made a Statement
After such a disappointing loss against the Denver Broncos two games ago, the Buccaneers bounced back in a big way against the Philadelphia Eagles. The offense jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the 1st quarter, and they never looked back on the way to the 33-16 victory. Baker Mayfield had a huge game, completing 30 of his 47 passes for 347 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions. The running game was a bit inconsistent again, but Bucky Irving finished with 10 carries for 49 yards and a touchdown. Mike Evans wasn’t a big part of the first three games, but he broke out against the Eagles, finishing with eight catches for 94 yards and a touchdown.
The Buccaneers on the season are averaging 24.45 points, while their defense is giving up 19.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 9th in the league, while the defense is ranked 12th in the league. In this game, the Buccaneers are going to need the offense to get out to a fast start and really put the pressure on.
What a Win for the Falcons
The Falcons have been ultra-inconsistent to start the season, but they are coming off a big victory on Sunday. The Falcons faced off against the New Orleans Saints, and they were able to secure a 26-24 victory. Kirk Cousins completed 21 of his 35 passes for 238 yards, zero touchdowns, and one interception. He still hasn’t looked comfortable, and they need him to become more comfortable. One interesting start from the game was the running game. Tyler Allgeier finished with eight carries for 60 yards, while Bijan Robinson finished with seven carries for 28 yards. Drake London did have a strong game, finishing with six catches for 64 yards.
The Falcons are averaging 18.8 points, while their defense is giving up 21.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 21st in the league, while the defense is ranked 15th. In this game, Cousins is going to need to have a huge game.
Atlanta Falcons vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Prediction
The Buccaneers shouldn’t be the underdogs, and they are going to find success in this game. Kirk Cousins has been inconsistent so far this season and this is going to be one of those games where he is going to struggle. Baker Mayfield is playing with confidence again, and he’s going to have a huge game here. The Falcons are going to have no answer, and the Buccaneers are going to cruise. Back the Bucs on the money line to cash here.