Buccaneers vs. Falcons on Thursday Night Football features two NFC South hopefuls in the kickoff to Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season.
Two teams with their eyes on the NFC South crown will collide under the Thursday night lights to open Week 5 of the NFL season.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, coming off a decisive 33-16 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, find themselves in familiar territory—poised for another postseason run. With a 3-1 record and undefeated in conference play, the Bucs are seeking a fifth straight playoff appearance, determined to extend their reign.
But the Atlanta Falcons have a different story to tell. Hungry to end a playoff drought that has stretched since 2017, the Falcons come into this game at 2-2, fresh off a narrow 26-24 win over the New Orleans Saints. Despite their early season ups and downs, Atlanta remains unbeaten in conference play, knowing that this game could mark a turning point in their season.
For the Falcons, this isn’t just another game—it’s an opportunity to re-establish themselves as contenders. A chance to prove that they belong in the postseason conversation once again, ready to take the next step and reclaim a place among the league’s elite.
Buccaneers vs. Falcons Betting Preview
All Buccaneers vs. Falcons odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct on Tuesday, Oct. 1.
- Spread
Falcons -1.5 - Moneyline
Buccaneers +105 | Falcons -125 - Over/Under
43.5 - Game time
8:15 p.m. ET - Location
Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Atlanta, Georiga - Predicted Weather at Kick
72 degrees, Partly Cloudy - How to Watch
Amazon Prime Video
Buccaneers vs. Falcons Picks and Best Player Prop Bets
The Atlanta Falcons entered the season with high expectations, bringing in Kirk Cousins at quarterback and Zac Robinson as offensive coordinator. But so far, the results haven’t lived up to the hype. Ranked 21st in EPA per play and 22nd in first downs per game, Atlanta’s struggles have been most glaring on third down, where they sit at 29th, and in the red zone, converting just 40% of their opportunities.
Yet, perhaps a bit of patience is warranted. The Falcons have faced some of the toughest defenses in the league—Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Kansas City, and New Orleans. With time, there’s hope this offense could find its rhythm.
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been a pleasant surprise. Under new offensive coordinator Liam Coen, the Bucs are firing on all cylinders, ranking 8th in EPA per play and averaging over 24 points per game. Baker Mayfield, brought in during the offseason, has been efficient and tough, especially on critical downs and in the red zone.
Still, questions remain about Tampa Bay’s true form. Their best performances came against a young Washington defense and an injury-ravaged Eagles team. And this will only be their second road game of the season.
Atlanta may be able to exploit Tampa’s biggest weakness—their run defense, which ranks last in EPA allowed per handoff. With injuries along Tampa’s front seven, this is an opportunity for the Falcons to impose their will.
This game feels like a defining moment for Atlanta—a chance for Cousins and company to prove they belong in the NFC South race. With the spread creeping closer to a field goal, grabbing the Falcons early could be the smart play.
Kirk Cousins – QB (ATL) OVER/ UNDER 226.5 PASS YDS
Kirk Cousins hasn’t made the explosive plays many anticipated, but he’s quietly been reliable. In each of his last three games, he’s hit his passing prop, all in matchups decided by five points or fewer. Week by week, Cousins is settling into Atlanta’s offense, finding his rhythm at just the right time as the Falcons prepare for a pivotal showdown with Tampa Bay.
Both teams are coming off bruising, physical battles—Atlanta against the Saints and Tampa Bay against the Eagles. Defenses are feeling the effects, and that’s where Cousins could take advantage. With the Falcons’ run game setting the stage, Atlanta may find the space to attack downfield, where Cousins’ growing connection with his receivers could shine. In a game where both teams are looking for an edge, big plays might be the key to pushing the Falcons over the top and securing a much-needed win.
Cousins has shown the kind of consistency that goes unnoticed until it matters most. And in a game like this, under the lights and with so much at stake, it feels like the moment where his steady hand could make all the difference. This number for Cousins feels too low—his time to deliver has come, and Atlanta will lean on him to do just that.
Rachaad White – RB (TB) OVER/ UNDER 18.5 REC YDS
Rachaad White entered 2024 as the clear RB1 for the Buccaneers, but as the season unfolds, it’s becoming clear that things may end differently. White has struggled to make an impact in the ground game, posting just 115 yards on 41 carries without a touchdown. Meanwhile, rookie Bucky Irving has emerged, racking up 203 yards on 35 carries and finding the end zone once. Irving’s physical running style will likely lead the charge against Atlanta, while White will be relied upon in passing situations, carving out a role as the Bucs’ go-to option on long downs.
White may not have flourished on the ground, but his value as a receiving back is undeniable. He currently ranks third among running backs in routes run this season and is averaging three broken tackles per game—a testament to his ability to make plays after the catch. In a matchup against an Atlanta defense that just gave up 42 receiving yards to Alvin Kamara, White could be poised for a breakout performance in the passing game.
For Tampa Bay to move the chains, White’s contributions as a receiver will be key. As the game progresses, look for him to accumulate yards, especially late in the first and second half, when the defense begins to wear down.
This is a game where White’s receiving stats could shine, offering Tampa Bay the versatility they need to keep their offense moving. His role may have shifted, but White remains a crucial part of this Bucs’ attack.
The Prediction: Falcons 24 – Bucs 20
Best Bets:
- Falcons -1.5
- Kirk Cousins OVER 226.5 Passing Yards (-110)
- Rachaad White OVER 18.5 Receiving Yards (-110)
