Week 13 Game Preview: Atlanta Falcons vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

By Week 5, that Atlanta Falcons were one of the few teams to go undefeated and seemed prime to take over the NFC South and insert themselves into the post-season. Matt Ryan was playing at a pro-bowl level, Julio Jones was widely considered the top receiver in the league, the defense was playing well, and Devonta Freeman rose up as one of the most productive running backs in the NFL. Not only were the Falcons playing well, but Dan Quinn seemed like the savior Atlanta was hoping for.

The Buccaneers on the other hand were 2-3, Winston was showing the struggles most rookie QB’s experience (and then some), and it would appear the Buccaneers were destined for a top 10 pick in the draft. How early in the season it was to assume it would continue for both teams.

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As we approach Week 13, the Falcons have gone 1-5 and the once supreme play Ryan has faded into obscurity. The Falcons offense began to struggle as defenses started locking down Julio Jones, Freeman has had nagging injuries during this time leaving the turnover-prone Tevin Coleman to assume starting responsibilities, and the defense has given up plays in crucial moments. While each loss was considered

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, they were still losses. The Buccaneers saw a little more success, going 3-3 through week 12, however the Falcons struggles have brought a glimmer of playoff hope for Lovie Smith & Co.

These two faced off in Week 8 and the Bucs managed to pull off a win. With only one game separating these teams, the importance of this matchup is obvious to both sides. If the Falcons win, they’ll assume a two-game lead with only four games to go.  If the Bucs win, they’ll force a tie for the division lead, but ultimately be given 1^st place with two victories over Atlanta. Each side knows what’s at stake and each side will position themselves for a playoff run.

Keys to Victory

Atlanta Falcons

1. Matt Ryan Must Rebound

The performance of the Falcons will likely hinge on the play of Matt Ryan. If Matt Ryan plays as he did earlier in the season, the Falcons may not only win this game, but have confidence going through the remainder of the schedule. They will need that confidence as they play the still undefeated Carolina Panthers twice. Matt Ryan will need to find ways to move the offense downfield and free up his defense from being on the field.

1. Limit Turnovers

One reason for the Falcons recent slip is an ever decreasing turnover margin. Per ESPN , the Falcons are currently sitting at -3. While that’s not terrible (good for 21^st in the league), there was stretch of four games where they turned the ball over 12 times. This is unacceptable and will have to be changed if Atlanta hopes to see victory. The more their offense is on the field, the better for this Falcons team as a whole.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

1. Offensive Line Must Perform Better

The Offensive Line has left much to be desired over the last few season and 2015 is no different. As inconsistent as they’ve played, the Buccaneers have still found a way to win games. Against a potentially explosive Falcons offense, the O-line will need to play better than it has up to this point. If they can keep Winston on his feet and give him enough time to stretch plays and move the ball downfield, they will put enough points on the board to keep Atlanta from having a chance

1. Jameis Winston… Keep Playing Well

Winston’s play has steadily improved as the season has worn on. If the Buccaneers want to continue winning games, he will need to keep that pace. Winston torched the Eagles for five TD passes and demonstrated an ability to get the ball downfield. If he can play at that same level, he will make it really tough for Atlanta to stay in this game.

Players to Watch

Atlanta – Tevin Coleman, RB

Tevin Coleman had a rough fumble against Minnesota that I’m sure he wishes he had back. Coleman has had a tough time keeping hold of the football and if Devonta Freeman is out, he will be the lead back once again. Coleman will be crucial to the Falcons running attack. If he turns the ball over and fails to get into space, it could be a long game for Atlanta. If he can break open a few runs, it will help bring balance to the offense and give the Falcons a fighting chance. 

Tampa Bay – Alterraun Verner, DB

Verner is more than likely going to be lined up against Julio Jones all day. When Julio Jones gets into a rhythm, the momentum he carries pushes the Falcons offense to a whole new level. Jones, widely regarded as one of the top receivers in the league, will need to be quieted if the Bucs have a chance to put Atlanta away. This task rests firmly on Verner. If he struggles, Jones will have a big day. If he lives up to the task, the Bucs may come out on top.

Verdict

While the Buccaneers hold the hot hand, I see Atlanta rebounding and finally notching another win. I think Julio Jones and Matt Ryan will connect on some big plays to give the Falcons just enough to overcome a turnover or two and put this one away.

Atlanta – 27 – Tampa Bay – 23