Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reacts after defeating the Philadelphia Eagles at Raymond James Stadium on September 29, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
The Buccaneers at Falcons kickoff Week 5 of the NFL schedule with and important NFC South battle. First of all, it is hard to believe we are in the fifth week of the NFL schedule already. The season is going too fast.
But the Bucs come into this game with a pleasant 3-1 record while the Falcons are at 2-2. The winner of this game gets a leg up on the other as both were preseason favorites to fight for the division title.
It is early, but the Bucs have looked good. Baker Mayfield has rejuvenated his career and he is showing the scrappiness that made him the number one pick of the NFL draft back in the day. Mayfield will never be considered the most talented quarterback in the league but he is a great locker room guy who gives 100 percent and his team mates seem to love playing with the guy.
The Falcons, on the other hand have one of the most steady quarterbacks in the game in Kirk Cousins. He is coming back from a serious injury last season and is attempting to change the narrative that he doesn't win big games.
Both quarterbacks in the Buccaneers at Falcons game play with chip on their shoulders and always feel like they have something to prove. This will make for a great story line any time they play each other.
BUCCANEERS AT FALCONS
A couple of other items to look for in this game Thursday is the Falcons running game and the Bucs defensive line. Falcons running back Bijan Robinson is a powerful runner however he is nursing a tender hamstring. Meanwhile the Bucs have 8 sacks this season and will be looking for more as they will test the mobility of Cousins in the pocket.
For more Bucs and NFL talk tune in each weekday from 2-6pm to Craig Shemon and Company on ESPN Southwest Florida.
