The Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are two of the biggest disappointments in the league this season, with a combined record of 6-14 entering their Week 12 matchup.
Neither team appears to be headed to the playoffs despite having two of the NFL’s most potent passing offenses. The Bucs are averaging 285.6 yards per game through the air, which ranks fourth. The Falcons are averaging 300.3 passing yards per contest, the third-highest in the league.
The problem for Tampa Bay has been its 32nd-ranked defense, which has allowed 31.2 points per game. Atlanta isn’t too far behind, allowing 26.2 points per game, even after two dominant defensive performances.
Bucs coach Bruce Arians spoke with team reporters and was asked about Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. Arians, who’s worked with some great QBs including Ben Roethlisberger, Peyton Manning, Andrew Luck and Carson Palmer, had high praise for Ryan:
“I’ve always been a fan,” said Arians. “I think he’s one of the premier pocket passers, and he’s just been an outstanding player for a long time.”
Atlanta has played complementary football during its current two-game win streak, accounting for 11 sacks and four interceptions, while putting up 27.5 points per game. The Bucs, meanwhile, are coming off a 34-17 loss to the Saints in Week 11.
The Falcons are favored for the first time in over a month, opening as a 4.5-point favorite over Tampa Bay in Week 12.
