Atlanta Falcons: Who will have bigger day, Devonta Freeman or Doug Martin?
What are the keys to the game between the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers?
The Atlanta Falcons (6-5) begin a three-game road stretch against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-6) in a game that could have major playoff implications.
I spoke with David Rumsey, editor of The Pewter Plank, which is our FanSided affiliate site that covers the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It’s great to be able to get a Bucs perspective on Sunday’s game and the race for the wild-card spots.
Jameis Winston seems to be growing into his role as the season goes on. What’s your take on his development since Week 1?
DR: After a few up and down performances in the first quarter of the season, Winston has really played well since the Bucs Week 5 win over the Jaguars. He has really limited the turnovers, which plagued him at Florida State and in the first part of this season. He is still making some rookie mistakes, but he has become really fun to watch.
All of a sudden, the Buccaneers are in the playoff hunt. How do you see the rest of the season panning out for the Bucs?
DR: A win over the Falcons wold be a huge step for the Bucs, getting them back to .500. If the Bucs were to win out, I think 10-6 would definitely earn a wild card spot. 9-7 is also feasible for this team, but I think that would bring tie-breaking procedures into the picture.
What are the keys to this game?
DR: I think the Bucs establishing the run and the Falcons getting Julio Jones involved early are two big keys to the game. Those players are the motors of each offense and without a strong performance from Martin or Jones, the Bucs and Falcons could struggle.
Who has the bigger day: Doug Martin or Devonta Freeman?
DR: I’d have to say Doug Martin, just because he has been a lot hotter over the past few weeks. We know Freeman can explode at any time, but it seems like Martin is on more of a role right now.
Finally, what’s your prediction for the game and why?
DR: After only scoring 12 points against the Colts, I can’t say I have too much faith in the Bucs, but the Falcons really do look pretty bad, I think the Bucs will be motivated to get back to a .500 record and take this one at home, 27-20.