In an exhilarating NFC South clash on Thursday night, the Atlanta Falcons edged the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 36-30 in overtime, thanks to a spectacular 45-yard touchdown pass from Kirk Cousins to KhaDarel Hodge. This victory showcased both teams’ offensive prowess, as they both scored touchdowns on their opening drives.
Cousins, who threw for a franchise-record 509 yards, delivered his fourth touchdown in dramatic fashion, solidifying Atlanta’s position at 3-2, placing them in a tie for the division lead. The game was tied at the end of regulation after Younghoe Koo connected on a 52-yard field goal, sending the game into overtime.
Notably, Cousins recorded his fifth go-ahead touchdown pass in the final minute of regulation or overtime over the past five seasons, more than any other quarterback in the league. The Falcons, who have consistently overcome late-game deficits, became the first team in NFL history to win three of their first five games despite trailing in the final minute of those games.
In terms of individual performances, Cousins demonstrated his returning form with 42 completions on 58 attempts, accounting for four touchdowns and an interception. Wide receiver Drake London had a standout game, catching 12 passes for 154 yards and scoring his first touchdown against Tampa Bay.
Darnell Mooney also shone brightly, replicating his former self from his 2021 season with the Chicago Bears. He had nine receptions for 105 yards, marking his first game with multiple touchdown catches.
On the Buccaneers’ side, quarterback Baker Mayfield started strong, completing 13 of 16 passes for 131 yards and three touchdowns in the first half but struggled in the second, finishing with just 49 yards through the air after halftime. Despite having achieved the best start to a season in his career with 11 touchdown passes, the offensive momentum slipped away.
Defensively, the Buccaneers faced challenges, conceding a staggering 550 yards of total offense, while surrendering numerous yards after the catch to the Falcons. This loss highlighted the need for Tampa Bay to improve its final-quarter execution as they prepared for their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints.
Next, the Falcons will face the Carolina Panthers, while the Buccaneers look to regroup against the Saints.