NFL WEEK 8 SCORE PREDICTION FALCONS VS BUCS

Wed, Oct 23, 2024
by SetTheNarrative.cappertek.com

1 PM Sunday: Atlanta Falcons (4-3) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-3)

Vegas Line: Falcons -2.5 | O/U 46
Predicted Score: TB 24.5 - 20.5 ATL

Both the Falcons and Buccaneers come into this matchup at 4-3 after tough losses in Week 7. Atlanta fell to the Seahawks in a home game, 34-14, while Tampa Bay lost a high-scoring contest at home to the Ravens, 41-31.

The two teams met earlier in the season, with the Falcons barely pulling off a dramatic late-game comeback. Kirk Cousins, the Falcons' quarterback, threw for a staggering 509 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 1 interception in that game. The Buccaneers, led by Baker Mayfield, were more efficient on offense, scoring 3 passing touchdowns on only 180 passing yards. Despite both teams having solid but unspectacular performances in the running game, neither team’s running backs reached 22 carries. This time, the Buccaneers will likely focus on getting their starting running back more touches, aiming for 22 carries to control the pace.

Falcons Offense vs. Buccaneers Defense: Atlanta tends to score around 31 points against defenses like Tampa Bay’s, while the Bucs’ defense has struggled, allowing 41 points on average against comparable offenses. However, the Falcons' offensive output may not be as explosive as it was in their previous meeting. Zac Robinson, the Falcons' offensive coordinator, tends to emphasize a balanced approach with a modern twist, featuring both a strong passing game and a reliance on strategic running plays.
Buccaneers Offense vs. Falcons Defense: Tampa Bay’s offense usually scores 21 points against defenses of Atlanta's caliber, while Atlanta's defense has been shaky, allowing 34 points to similar teams. Baker Mayfield is the key advantage for the Bucs in this game. His efficiency in their previous meeting nearly led the Bucs to victory, and he's expected to be the difference-maker again. Liam Coen, Tampa Bay’s offensive coordinator, brings an adaptable and creative offensive philosophy, favoring quick passing and efficient play-calling, which contrasts with Atlanta’s more balanced, deliberate style under Robinson.

Coaching Contrast:

Zac Robinson (Falcons OC): A young, innovative mind, Robinson leans into modern offensive concepts like play-action and spread formations to open up the field. He believes in balance between the run and pass, creating opportunities for explosive plays by keeping defenses off-balance.
Liam Coen (Buccaneers OC): Coen brings a West Coast-style approach, emphasizing short, high-percentage throws to maintain offensive rhythm and control time of possession. His offenses are built around quick decision-making and a flexible game plan, which may lean more heavily on the running game this time to wear down the Falcons' defense.

Conclusion: While the Falcons stole the game in their first matchup, the Buccaneers have the tools to reverse the outcome this time around. Baker Mayfield’s efficiency, combined with a more focused running game plan, should give Tampa Bay the edge. Although Atlanta scores more and allows fewer points against teams of similar caliber, the Buccaneers’ strategy and Mayfield’s quarterback play make them the better bet in this rematch.

Final prediction: Buccaneers 24.5 - 20.5 Falcons. Expect a close game, but this time the Bucs should walk away with the win.