Baker Mayfield leads Buccaneers to victory over Falcons

Baker Mayfield threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Emeka Egbuka with 1:04 left, helping the Tampa Bay Buccaneers secure a 23-20 win over the Atlanta Falcons. The victory was sealed when Younghoe Koo missed a 44-yard field goal in the final seconds.

Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. showcased strong late-game performance by leading Atlanta on a quick 60-yard drive to set up Koo's field goal attempt. Penix's efforts also gave the Falcons a late 20-17 lead with impressive plays, including a diving fourth-down conversion and a touchdown run.

Mayfield completed 17 of 32 passes for 167 yards and three touchdowns, while Penix finished 27-of-42 passing for 298 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions in his fourth professional start.

Despite a struggling run game, Falcons running back Bijan Robinson had a productive day with 118 yards and a touchdown, mostly through receiving yards. The Falcons' run game faced challenges, only gaining 57 yards on the ground against Tampa Bay.

Egbuka, Tampa Bay's first-round pick, shined in his NFL debut with two touchdowns and four catches for 67 yards. The Falcons, focusing on improving their pass rush in the offseason, had limited success in pressuring Mayfield during the game.

Due to injuries, the Buccaneers made changes to their offensive line for the game, with Graham Barton starting at left tackle and Ben Bredeson moving to center. The absence of Tristan Wirfs impacted the team's lineup adjustments.