Arthur Blank Owner And Chairman, Blank Family Of Businesses | Atlanta Falcons Website
Arthur Blank Owner And Chairman, Blank Family Of Businesses | Atlanta Falcons Website
The Atlanta Falcons are preparing to host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a Thursday Night Football clash. The Buccaneers, led by Baker Mayfield, hold a 3-1 record and currently lead the NFC South division. Meanwhile, the Falcons are coming off a victory against the New Orleans Saints, which was decided by a long field goal from Younghoe Koo.
Injuries are impacting both teams ahead of this matchup. The Falcons will be without Troy Andersen due to a knee injury. Rookie JD Bertrand is set to start in his place alongside Kaden Elliss. There is hope for Kaleb McGary's return after missing the previous game with a knee injury. For the Buccaneers, several key players will be absent, including Antione Winfield Jr., Luke Goedeke, Calijah Kancey, Jalen McMillan, and Trey Palmer.
Mayfield's performance has been crucial for Tampa Bay's success this season. He has achieved a 70.5% completion rate with eight touchdowns and two interceptions over four games. His ability to distribute passes efficiently has made him an asset to the team.
Falcons' defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake noted that "Baker will distribute the ball to anybody that's open," emphasizing Mayfield's skill in finding open receivers rather than forcing plays.
JD Bertrand is set for his first NFL start as he steps in for Andersen on defense. The coaching staff expressed confidence in Bertrand’s abilities based on his performances during practice and limited game time.
Penalties have posed challenges for Atlanta so far this season. Beat reporter Terrin Waack highlighted that many penalties have resulted in difficult situations requiring substantial yardage gains on subsequent plays.
Grady Jarrett addressed concerns about limiting opponents' explosive plays while allowing third-down conversions at a high rate. He emphasized focusing on reducing smaller yardage gains that contribute to easier third-down conversions.
Drake London may benefit from Winfield’s absence on Tampa Bay's defense as Kirk Cousins continues targeting him more frequently each game.
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