The NFC South race has taken some unexpected turns, and for now, the Falcons remain at the head of the table. Many view them as the division’s front-runner, but perhaps that confidence is misplaced. A more thorough examination finds the Buccaneers have more on their side than they seem and that regaining the NFC South may be more attainable than meets the eye.
There’s plenty of football left, and Tampa Bay can capitalize on the opportunity. The Buccaneers have numerous key advantages over their rivals. We’ll explore why they are the team to watch in this divisional race.
Favorable Schedule Ahead
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Tampa Bay had the upper hand when it came to schedules. In the weeks ahead, the Buccaneers will play a lineup of mostly struggling teams (Panthers, Giants, Raiders) before hosting the Packers in Week 13.
Considering the matchups, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers odds look increasingly favorable, with predictions suggesting they will be favored in six of their final seven games. A finish like that requires a robust setup.
The Falcons, however, have a much stricter schedule coming up. Gaming against the Vikings, Commanders, and Chargers await Atlanta’s mettle. One or two dropped games could give Tampa Bay the window to pull away from the division.
With that, the Buccaneers have a much easier schedule. It means there’s less room for error and a focus on execution instead of having to beat better teams. That would be a considerable advantage to hold as we go into the end of the year.
Momentum from Rest and Recovery
After using the bye week for rest, the Buccaneers came into Week 12 ready to play. The late-season break allowed the team to restock, mend broken bodies, and strategize about the final push of a grueling season.
Meanwhile, the Falcons have already gone through their bye and are charging through a brutal stretch of schedule. This part of the season can wear everyone out, especially for teams lacking depth in key positions. The Buccaneers are back and fresh, and Atlanta could be behind the eight ball in the weeks ahead.
Keep in mind that rest isn’t only physical but mental as well. It’s valuable time to regroup and devise a strategy, especially with a championship team like Tampa Bay that excels under the gun.
Quarterback and Offensive Consistency
The Buccaneers’ quarterback play has been the big story this season. Tampa Bay’s offense has proven it can still make plays despite a 4-6 record. Most matchups remain competitive because of their quarterback, who has avoided turnovers all year long. It could be crucial as they close in on a division crown.
While the Falcons haven’t been able to let their offensive play be consistent, their problems as quarterbacks can be traced to a lack of rhythm in their passing game and points on the field in critical moments. An unbalanced offense can get predictable, though, as Atlanta’s run game is still their strong suit, and the Buccaneers are set to exploit that. That’s a massive advantage for Tampa Bay, as they can put up points in some challenging moments.
Stronger Defensive Matchups
The Buccaneers’ defense has been a cornerstone of their identity this season. They can shut down more formidable offenses, which will serve them well against future opponents like the Panthers and Giants. Late turnovers are how Tampa Bay’s defense lives and dies.
While Atlanta’s defense has many assets, it’s more susceptible to gifting significant plays. They’ve struggled to stop top-tier offenses against explosive receivers or mobile quarterbacks. These vulnerabilities could become glaring as teams like the Chargers and Commanders enter the picture.
Pressure and Experience in Tight Races
Buccaneers offer a wealth of experience on and off the field. Their players have been staples on playoff-caliber teams, and their coaching staff understands how to survive the pressure of a tight race. Of course, progress does not happen overnight, and being familiar with high-stakes situations is the key to better decision-making and execution when the stakes are highest.
In contrast, the Falcons are in uncharted territory. Atlanta has a younger roster and less experience in divisional battles, and it may not last long before it begins to lose its cool as the pressure rises. Some critical mistakes could lead Tampa Bay to open the door.
In close competitions, experience usually makes up for that X factor. The Bucs know how to get it done under pressure, and it could be the difference maker.
Conclusion
While they sit in bedrock at the bottom of the cornerback depth chart, the Buccaneers have positioned themselves as a real threat to win the NFC South. The Falcons now have the division lead, but challenges may turn things from Atlanta to Tampa Bay’s advantage. It’s early for a race for the NFC South title to be this dramatic, but eight games remain, and the Buccaneers are preparing for a fun finish. Follow this one as the season continues—it will be a boxing match.
