The Tampa Bay Buccaneers took on the Atlanta Falcons last weekend in constant rain and hot, humid weather, with 10-15 mph winds. Passing the ball became optional.
Back in 1974, the Buffalo Bills beat the New York Jets 16-12 without completing a single pass. The Buccaneers did the same last Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.
The strategy to beat the Atlanta Falcons was straightforward: run the ball. They did: 56 times for 324 yards, including 14 yards on four carries by QB Baker Mayfield, who went an unbelievable 0-for-3 through the air. On the other sideline, Atlanta QB Michael Penix Jr. went 8-for-24 for 125 yards and four interceptions
The interesting thing about that passing statistic is that the Falcons gained more yards passing than rushing (99).
The Bucs won 16-0 to move to 3-5. Despite the losing record, Tampa remains in playoff contention in the National Conference. The Bucs are only a half-game behind NFC South division-leading Carolina and are seeded #10th overall in the National Conference playoff race.
Up next is Sunday’s game against the Bears in Chicago. Oddsmakers say passing won’t be optional.
