Koo’s Field Goal Lifts Falcons over Buccaneers 16-13

Raymond-James Stadium – Atlanta – October 22, 2023

Desmond Ridder and the Atlanta Falcons fought against two opponents Sunday, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and themselves all the way till the end amidst numerous self-inflicted mistakes to an ugly 16-13 victory ending an eight road-game losing streak and the top spot in the NFC South.

Ridder, displayed both moments of brilliance and those continued mistakes. He kicked off the game with a 2-yard touchdown run, giving the Falcons an early 7-0 lead.

However, Ridder committed three fumbles during the game, two of which came deep in Buccaneers’ territory. His resilience showed with him connecting with Kyle Pitts for a crucial 39-yard completion that set up Younghoe Koo’s game-winning 51-yard field goal as time expired.

The Falcons committed numerous penalties on defense, which resulted in six first downs for the Buccaneers. In a crucial moment, a pass interference call on Dee Alford at the Atlanta 8 allowed Tampa Bay the opportunity to tie the game with a field goal.

With only 45 seconds remaining, Ridder orchestrated a 42-yard drive to put Koo in a position to secure the victory.

Ridder’s fumbles were indeed costly, including one that nullified a 12-yard touchdown run that could have given the Falcons a 10-point lead. An earlier fumble by Ridder at the end of the first half prevented the Falcons from breaking a 10-10 tie. Another fumble in the third quarter followed a promising reception by Drake London, which could have given Atlanta a touchdown.

Tampa Bay also had its share of mistakes as well. Baker Mayfield threw an interception during a crucial fourth-quarter drive, and the Buccaneers were penalized nine times for a total of 66 yards. Their rushing attack struggled, managing just 73 yards on 20 attempts.

Mayfield finished the game with 275 passing yards and one touchdown. The Buccaneers found the end zone with a 40-yard touchdown reception by Mike Evans in the first quarter, along with field goals by Chase McLaughlin.

The Falcons played most of the game without rookie running back Bijan Robinson, who had limited playing time and carried the ball just once for three yards due to not feeling well.

With Robinson sidelined for headaches, Tyler Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson shared the rushing workload, helping the Falcons accumulate 156 yards on the ground.

This victory showcased the Falcons’ determination and potential for success as they strive to maintain their position at the top of the NFC South.

They must however, keep from making it hard on themselves by reducing errors and making better decisions to keep their spot at the top.

Up Next:
Falcons stay on the road next Sunday to go take on the 2-4 Tennessee Titans
at 1:00pm on CBS.

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