Peyton Barber finds traction
For the first time since Week 1, starting running back, Peyton Barber made noise on the ground. He rushed for 82 yards on 13 carries. Throw in his four receptions for 24 yards and a touchdown, and it was his best game all season.
The running game provided a big boost for Tampa Bay’s late comeback attempt. The Bucs were able to use play-action and force Atlanta to respect the running game.
Adding a legitimate threat on the ground will only open up the impressive passing attack even more.
It was a good sign for the Buccaneers who have been one of the worst teams on the ground so far this season. The Bucs currently rank 31st in the league with 80.2 rushing yards per game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Despite the 2-3 record, the Buccaneers are among the highest scoring offenses in the league. Tampa can use the ground game to keep their defense off the field while opening up the receivers down the field.
Barber was the hot hand in this one, as the only other running back who received a carry was the rookie tailback, Ronald Jones.
Matt Bryant strikes back
Veteran kicker Matt Bryant was once a Buccaneer. Back in 2008, a 33-year-old Bryant was knocking down field goals for Tampa Bay. Ten years later, and he is still crushing 57-yard attempts.
Unfortunately, those attempts are coming against the Bucs. His try this week sealed the game.
The make was made more painful thanks to the missed extra point by Chandler Catanzaro in the first quarter. That miss forced the Bucs to go for a two-point later, but they would fail.
Overall Catanzaro has been solid, but Bryant was an unpleasant reminder of the kicking woes Tampa has gone through for years.