Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Atlanta Falcons 10/3/24 – Week 5 of the NFL season promises an equally exciting and intriguing matchup as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1) travel to contest against the Atlanta Falcons (2-2) at a glitzy Mercedes-Benz Stadium. In the first Thursday night game of the season, fans can expect a fight between division rivals as both teams look to establish their position early in the campaign. Both fans and bettors will circle this matchup on their calendars as it guarantees fun gameplay and great odds on premier online betting platforms.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Atlanta Falcons 10/3/24
| When: | Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 8:15 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Mercedes-Benz Stadium |
| TV: | AMZN |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buccaneers | +3 (-120) | 45.5 over (-120) | +135 |  |
| Falcons | -3 (-120) | 45.5 under (-120) | -160 | |
| ||||
Mike Evans always brings the juice 🧃 pic.twitter.com/IgxbnLzO0h
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) October 3, 2024
The betting lines reveal a slight edge given to the home team, Atlanta Falcons, marked as favorites with a -3 point spread. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers hold a tempting +135 moneyline, presenting a valuable pick for those betting against the spread. The total over/under is set at 45.5, aligning with both teams’ recent scoring trends and defensive capabilities.
Baker Mayfield QB vs. Kirk Cousins QB
Baker Mayfield has proved to be some kind of a breath of fresh air for the Buccaneers this season having completed 70.5% of his passes and throwing for 984 yards across the four games that have been played. It should be noted that he has played dynamically with 8 touchdowns being thrown and only 2 interceptions thrown displaying his game managing and play-making ability quite perfectly. Mayfield’s ability to run and make quick choices will be put to the test against a Falcons defense that has been porous in pass coverage.
On the other hand, Kirk Cousins of the Falcons is coming off the action with 864 passing yards, 64.7% completion and an 83.5 passer rating which is quite moderate. Inconsistency has been his concern with 4 touchdowns and 4 interceptions hinting that he might be affected mentally when there is pressure. He will need to expand his ground game if he hopes to take advantage of the Buccaneers’ defense and come away with a satisfying W on their home turf.
Ground and Pound & Air Raid – Buccaneers’ Strategy
The Buccaneers’ offense has found a reliable ground game in Bucky Irving, who boasts an impressive 5.8 yards per carry. His explosive ability to break through defenses, evidenced by two 20+ yard plays, adds a layer of unpredictability. In the air, Chris Godwin has been Mayfield’s go-to receiver, racking up 322 yards and 3 touchdowns. His ability to create after the catch will be crucial against an Atlanta team that has given up big plays this season.
Falcons’ Offensive Game Plan
Tyler Allgeier has been the backbone of the Falcons’ rushing attack, averaging 6.1 yards per carry. However, the absence of touchdowns highlights a struggle to finish drives with points. Darnell Mooney, the leading receiver for the Falcons, has shown his big-play capability with 15 yards per reception and a team-high six 20+ yard catches. Connecting consistently with Mooney could be key for Cousins to unlock the Buccaneers’ defense.
Trends
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Trends
Tampa Bay are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Tampa Bay’s last 9 games.
Tampa Bay are 9-3 SU in their last 12 games.
Bucs are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games against Atlanta.
Tampa Bay are 9-2 ATS in their last 11 games on the road.
Atlanta Falcons Betting Trends
Atlanta are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games.
Atlanta are 3-6 SU in their last 9 games.
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Atlanta’s last 16 games against Tampa Bay.
Atlanta are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games at home.
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Atlanta’s last 8 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Atlanta Falcons Betting Prediction
Based on the statistical evidence and their performances lately, the Buccaneers have a good chance of winning, particularly looking at their away form and Falcons’ home woes. The wave that is likely to carry this day will be the quarterbacks’ performances- Mayfield’s efficaciousness against Cousins’ efficiency issues. Tampa Bay is likely to be a good value for bets no one should expect against the spread for those interested in NFL Week 5 betting predictions.
On total points, the pace of game suggests possibility of the game having a lot of points scored, with two generally offensive teams and two defensive teams who at times cannot contain opponents. Still, with the right adjustment to the game and secure zone defense, things may shift in the opposite direction and go under.
Score Prediction: Buccaneers 28, Falcons 25.
